KOUPELA — The 2nd edition of Burkinabè Heritage Month wrapped up on Saturday, May 18, 2024, with the official opening of International Museum Day in Koupéla, in the Center-East region. Jean Emmanuel OUÉDRAOGO, Minister of State, Minister of Communication, Culture, Arts and Tourism, presided over the event, which marked the culmination of a month-long celebration of Burkina Faso’s cultural heritage.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the theme for this year’s celebration was “Museums for education and research.” The event underscored the vital role museums play in education and research, serving as pivotal spaces for learning, experience sharing, and the confluence of tradition and modernity. This year’s theme aimed to position museums as centers of discovery and discussion.

In his remarks, the Minister highlighted the importance of museums in fostering social cohesion and peace, particularly in a global context where coexistence, diversity, and tolerance face challenges. He emphasized that museums should strive to engage more closely with communities and become venues for a wide array of cultural expressions.

He also encouraged all citizens of Burkina Faso to use this day as an opportunity for engagement, sharing, and promotion of museum discourse, especially in times when innovation and tradition need to merge to forge a peaceful and solidary nation.

To conclude the ceremony and the month’s activities, the Minister expressed gratitude to all visitors who explored the various sites and monuments, deepening their understanding of Burkina Faso’s rich heritage.