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Koudougou’s Tunnel Ceremony Highlights Cultural and Tourism Contributions

Koudougou: The 4th edition of the Tunnel, a ceremony recognizing cultural and tourism stakeholders in the Centre-West region, was held in Koudougou on Saturday.

According to Burkina Information Agency, this annual event, initiated by Adama Badiel, aims to create a platform of visibility and support for artists and tourism professionals, enabling them to establish themselves on national and international stages.

Promoter Adama Badiel emphasized the importance of this edition, highlighting collaboration, recognition, and collective construction. He reiterated the Tunnel’s fundamental objective: to spotlight the cultural and tourism talents of the Centre-West, who often work without recognition or support to enrich the region.

This year’s event paid special tribute to its partners, whose support is crucial. Notable attendees included Jean No«l Bonkoungou, representing the Minister of Culture, El Hadj Inoussa Bagu©, President of the Patronat du Centre-Ouest, Franck Alain Kabor©, CEO of Cin©ma Neerwaya, and Ali Bonkoungou, CEO of Salsabil BStiment, showcasing the commitment from both private and public sectors.

Despite a reduction to five competition categories this year due to fewer album releases and works meeting criteria, Adama Badiel assured that the “Golden Tunnel” category would evolve next year to expand opportunities while maintaining quality standards.

The promoter also called for volunteers, emphasizing the need to build a true ecosystem where art, heritage, tourism, and youth can thrive. This plea underscores the challenge of resource scarcity in fully supporting winners and maximizing their visibility.

Previous editions honored figures like Eug¨ne Bayala (Oyou), Sawadogo Alidou (chief of the Village of Kikideni), and Rasman© Ou©draogo (Razo). This year’s artistic winners include Mr Baraka, Tasha, Yololo Junior, and KSB 80, while personalities in cultural and tourism fields such as El Hadj Inoussa Bagu©, Franck Alain Kabor©, and others were recognized.

Adama Badiel concluded by affirming that “the Tunnel is not a one-off event. It is a movement, an ambition, a bridge between what we are and what we can become,” sending a strong message for the future of culture and tourism in the Centre-West region. Jean No«l Bonkoungou, representing the boss, reassured the Tunnel promoter of the ministry’s support.