Government Officials Join Cross Country Event in Bobo-Dioulasso Ahead of National Culture Week

BOBO-DIOULASSO—Several members of the Burkinabè government participated in a cross country race on Friday evening in Bobo-Dioulasso, marking the commencement of the National Culture Week (SNC), which is set to begin on Saturday at 2 p.m. in Sya.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the event served as a precursor to the 21st edition of the biennial celebration of Burkinabè culture. The race started at the Mgr. Anselme Titiama Sanon park and was followed by an aerobics session. Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo, Minister of State, Minister of Culture, Arts, and Tourism, initiated the popular cross country event, highlighting its significance in physically preparing government members and participants for the cultural biennial.

Joining Ouédraogo were several key figures including Dr. Boubakar Savadogo, the minister in charge of sports; Roger Barro, the minister responsible for the environment; and Colonel Abdramane Amadou from Niger, representing the guest country of honor at the SNC. They were accompanied by directors of partner structures of the SNC and supported by the Defense and Security Forces.

Minister Ouédraogo emphasized the dual purpose of the event: fostering unity among civilians, cultural leaders, government officials, and security forces, and celebrating national pride through cultural expression. He expressed optimism for the biennial event, linking it to broader national goals such as the reconquest of Burkinabè territory and the restoration of peace in Burkina Faso.