ZINIARÉ, BURKINA FASO — The Minister of State and Minister of Culture, Arts, and Tourism, Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo, officially opened a Women’s Museum on March 8, 2024, which coincides with International Women’s Rights Day.

According to Burkina Information Agency, this museum, located in the village of Kolgondiessé, commune of Ziniaré, was initiated by Princess Julie Kongo in 2005 and has now come to fruition with the support of the Cultural and Tourist Development Fund (FDCT) and the National Museum of Burkina.

The museum’s establishment is a tribute to the preservation of cultural heritage, as highlighted by Minister Ouédraogo during the inauguration. He commended Princess Kongo for her efforts and expressed hope that the museum would serve as an inspiration for similar initiatives across other regions. The museum aims to offer insights into the lives of ‘Moagha’ women and other communities, showcasing objects that represent cultural values and traditions.

Princess Julie Kongo pointed out that the museum houses items from the queen mother of the royal court of Moogho, emphasizing the importance of promoting cultural and ancestral values. She also praised the government’s recent decision to designate May 15 as ‘Customs and Traditions Day,’ reinforcing the nation’s commitment to its heritage.

The inauguration served not only as the launch of the museum but also as a platform to honor the resilience and dignity of Burkinabe women, particularly in times of crisis. Minister Ouédraogo used this occasion to encourage women to continue their support for the ongoing efforts to reclaim Burkina Faso’s sovereignty, underlining the critical role they play in the nation’s socio-cultural and political landscape.