DIAPANGOU — In an effort to strengthen social cohesion amid ongoing security crises, Silas Nacanabo, the High Commissioner of Gourma province, led a Communities Day celebration in Diapangou on Saturday, June 22, 2024. The event included the symbolic planting of a ‘Tree of Peace’ at a local primary school.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the president of the special delegation of Diapangou, the region has been severely impacted by insecurity, leading to community tensions and the displacement of thousands. Diapangou, which spans 573 square kilometers and encompasses 31 villages, is home to diverse communities including the Gourmantché, Zaogo, Fulani, and Yadsé. These groups have recently faced increased community conflicts that threaten the local social fabric.
The day was dedicated to promoting peace and encouraging dialogue among the varied communities. Representatives from these groups expressed a unified commitment to uphold values of acceptance, forgiveness, and wisdom to maintain peace in Diapangou. The High Commissioner praised the communal efforts and emphasized that peace requires continuous effort and commitment.
Silas Nacanabo’s gesture of planting a tree symbolized a shared commitment to peace and cooperation. He urged the community to view the tree as a reminder of their collective responsibility towards maintaining harmony, suggesting that it serve as a meeting point for resolving future conflicts.
The event also featured exhibitions of agropastoral and artisanal products and showcased traditional dances, celebrating the cultural richness of Diapangou’s communities.