Seguenega: the town is buzzing with the rhythm of the 1st edition of Festi Yaam, under the banner of social cohesion and living together: The municipality of Zoaga hosted, from May 1 to 3, 2026, the first edition of the "FesTi Yaam" festival, an initiative of the Ti Tiis Taaba Yaam (3TY) association, placed under the theme: "Culture, factor of social cohesion and living together in Koussassi country". This first edition transformed Zoaga into a true crossroads for promoting Koussassi culture, mobilizing the sons and daughters of the locality around the values of peace, solidarity, and unity.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the festival was held under the honorary presidency of the canton chief, Naaba Tigre, with co-sponsorship from the prefect, president of the special delegation of Zoaga, Bernard Yameogo, the sponsorship of Commander Victor Bonsa, and the godfathership of Mrs. Bintou Ouattara, CEO of Fun House Restaurant. During the three days of festivities, several activities were organized, including a popular cross-country race that began at the Zoaga territorial gendarmerie brigade. This event saw the participation of community leaders as well as students from various secondary schools.
A panel discussion was also moderated by Roger Bonsa on the festival's theme. In his presentation, he highlighted the foundations of Koussassi culture and encouraged the local population to make it a key driver of development. He stated that no harmony or sustainable development is possible without culture. At the official opening on Saturday, May 2, 2026, the representative of the canton chief, the chief of Bingo, conveyed the encouragement and blessings of the traditional authorities to the organizers. He expressed hope that this initiative would continue to safeguard and promote Koussassi culture.
The festival's general commissioner, Sebastien Nanga, expressed satisfaction with the festival's successful completion given the strong turnout. He declared that culture appears to be a powerful lever for social cohesion, adding that FesTi Yaam aims to be a framework for exchange, conviviality, and reconciliation among the people of Zoaga. The patron, Victor Bonsa, welcomed his choice and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting future editions, stressing that promoting culture is a shared responsibility.
The godmother, Bintou Ouattara, indicated that the chosen theme is of paramount importance, as culture contributes to preserving identities, strengthening social ties, and building a better future. In his address, Prefect Bernard Yameogo welcomed the presence of administrative and traditional authorities, while congratulating the organizers for their efforts. He stated that Zoaga is now positioning itself as a crossroads of cultural exchange and an example of peaceful coexistence, emphasizing that culture remains the foundation of a united and prosperous society.
The artistic entertainment was provided by several artists, including Kezi, Lega Ther¨se, and Marcel Ouare, who came from Zoaga and the surrounding areas. Festival-goers also had the opportunity to sample local dishes, thus combining culture and gastronomy. It should be noted that the Festi Yaam festival took place at the Zoaga Youth Centre and will now take place there every year.