MOUHOUN — In a significant communal event on Thursday, July 18, 2024, 25 couples legalized their unions during a mass wedding ceremony in Dédougou. The event, presided over by Dieudonné Tougfo, President of the special delegation of the commune of Dédougou, marked the beginning of preparations for the 3rd Dédougou Municipal Week (SECOD).

According to Burkina Information Agency, the collective wedding aimed to address the issue of couples living together without formalizing their marriages, a common situation often due to financial constraints or lack of information. The ceremony was designed to simplify the process, making legal recognition of unions more accessible to residents. Dieudonné Tougfo emphasized the importance of legal marriage, noting that the communal approach to these weddings provides the same legal status as individually celebrated ones.

The initiative not only promoted legal marriages but also highlighted the local government’s dedication to fostering community ties and supporting families. Assétou Traoré, a participant in the event, expressed her relief and joy, having lived with her partner for years without the possibility of formal marriage. She thanked the municipal effort that allowed her relationship to gain legal recognition.

The mass wedding was just the beginning of a series of activities planned for the 3rd Municipal Week of Dédougou, running from July 30 to August 3, 2024. The week’s events are set to include discussions on citizen participation, local development challenges and perspectives, and a mix of cultural and sporting activities.