OUAGADOUGOU — In a significant cultural gesture, the Ministry of Health of Burkina Faso showcased its commitment to promoting national languages by singing the national anthem, “Le Ditanyè,” in the Kassem language during a flag-raising ceremony on Monday. This event marks a notable effort to integrate more of the country’s linguistic heritage into official proceedings.

According to Burkina Information Agency, head of the Ministry, the decision to perform the anthem in Kassem—a language spoken by the Kassenas, an ethnic group in the southern region of Burkina Faso—aligns with ongoing efforts to honor and revitalize Burkina Faso’s diverse linguistic traditions. The Kassem rendition of the anthem was performed in chorus by the Ministry’s staff, highlighting a broader governmental initiative spearheaded by the Permanent Secretary for the Promotion of National Languages, Dr. Awa 2nd Twin Tiendrebéogo/Sawadogo.

Dr. Tiendrebéogo/Sawadogo emphasized the cultural and patriotic importance of the national anthem, which encapsulates the history and the resolve of Burkina Faso’s patriots to defend their nation. She outlined an ambitious goal for the future, aiming to have the anthem translated into all national languages and taught to children across the country, thereby fostering a deeper connection with national identity among the younger generations.