Rabat: Burkina Faso is actively participating in the 30th edition of the International Book and Publishing Fair (SIEL), held in Rabat from April 18 to 27, 2025, to promote its cultural heritage through various communications and a display of literary works by Burkinabe authors.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the nation is represented at this prestigious event by the Mercury publishing house, featuring Burkinabe literary contributions, along with writers Thierry Millogo and Bernadette Sanou/Dao, who have been invited to deliver presentations. Burkina Faso's ambassador to Morocco, Mamadou Coulibaly, visited the Burkinabe stand on Monday, along with several stands of African publishers and member countries of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
Ambassador Coulibaly expressed his pleasure in supporting his compatriots, particularly the Mercury publishing house and its founder, Thierry Millogo, as well as former Minister of Culture Bernadette Sanou/Dao, both of whom were invited by Moroccan authorities through Burkina Faso's Ministry of Culture. He emphasized that through these writers, Burkinabe culture is distinctly celebrated, highlighting that writers serve as a reflection of their society.
He noted, "Writers translate the experiences and realities of their society. When I say realities, I also mean the culture, traditions, and customs that shine through their writings and explain to the world what these societies really are." Coulibaly views the International Book and Publishing Fair as a major event that honors those involved in literature and felt it was his duty to promote Burkinabe culture through books.
The ambassador also encouraged other African exhibitors, particularly from AES, to continue celebrating their culture. He praised the expression and influence of Burkinabe and African cultural diversity at the fair, which also honored the Emirate of Sharjah as guest of honor. He extended gratitude to Moroccan authorities, especially the Moroccan Minister of Youth, Culture and Communication, for consistently inviting Burkina Faso to the fair.
The ambassador applauded the fair as a platform that not only promotes books but also showcases cultural diversity, encouraging young people to cultivate a habit of reading. The 30th edition of SIEL, organized by Morocco's Ministry of Youth, Culture and Communication, in collaboration with the Rabat-Sal©-K©nitra region, brought together 756 exhibitors from 51 countries. The event is held under the High Patronage of King Mohammed VI, with the opening ceremony presided over by Prince Moulay Rachid, in the presence of Moroccan Minister Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid and various international delegations.