Bougouriba: The High Commissioner of Bougouriba Province, Amidou Konate, conveyed the President of Burkina Faso's message to the constituted bodies and civil society organizations on Friday, March 27, 2026, during the launch of the initial phase of the third edition of the National Days of Patriotic Engagement and Civic Participation (JEPPC). This event occurred at a flag-raising ceremony at the provincial tax office.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the Head of State focused on the issue of food sovereignty, urging citizens to scrutinize their consumption patterns. He highlighted the nation's reliance on imported goods, such as rice, milk, and canned products, which overshadow local produce. This dependency was depicted as a subtle form of economic imperialism, sustained by fraudulent trade practices and consumer behaviors rooted in historical conditioning.

The President called for a collective consciousness to counter this trend, stressing that purchasing local products is both a patriotic duty and a catalyst for economic growth. He urged citizens to discard biases undervaluing national goods, including Faso Dan Fani fabric and local staples like millet, sorghum, and maize. The population was encouraged to "take pride in what they eat" by consistently choosing Burkinab¨ products.

The theme for the 2026 edition, "Food sovereignty and economic patriotism: together, let's cultivate our dignity through local production and consumption," serves as a rallying cry for mobilization. The slogan "My plate, my pride!" represents a commitment to bolstering the national economy.

The President also appealed to government bodies, educational institutions, and households to integrate the practice of "buying local" into everyday life and urged retailers to stock domestic goods. He warned against the perceived ease of consumption through imports, viewing it as a threat to the country's economic autonomy.

In closing, the President called for a steadfast dedication to local production, processing, and consumption, which he views as essential for true sovereignty.

Zidi Niki¨ma, the provincial director of taxes and host of the ceremony, encouraged citizens to meet their tax obligations, including residence, motor vehicle, and firearms taxes. He stated that tax compliance is an act of sovereignty, suggesting that reliance on foreign aid perpetuates a form of imperialism.

The High Commissioner also urged educational leaders to disseminate the presidential message across classrooms in the province.