Kourittenga: The Koupela I Basic Education District (CEB) officially launched its sports and cultural activities on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, in Koupela. The opening match saw Tembela B Primary School team securing a win against Sector 3 C team with a 3-2 victory in a penalty shootout.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the event, themed "Sport and culture in primary school, foundation of education for social cohesion and resilience," drew educational authorities, supervisors, teachers, and numerous students. The activities, which commenced on January 28, are set to conclude on May 2, with about thirty teams participating in the competitions.

The opening match unfolded with two 25-minute halves, marked by strong commitment from both teams. Tembela B's Yameogo Benjamin scored the opening goal in the 20th minute. Sector 3 C responded with an equalizer by Ouedraogo Boureima in the 27th minute, leading to a 1-1 tie by halftime. The match ended in a penalty shootout, with Tembela B emerging victorious.

Wahabou Balma, coach of the winning team, expressed that his players could have performed better. He remarked, "The children had the opportunity to finish the match in regulation time, but the pressure from the crowd held them back a little. Nevertheless, I have identified the errors to correct and I am hopeful that we will go far in this competition."

Dieudonne Yameogo, representing the head of the CEB of Koupela I, emphasized the importance of sports and cultural activities in children's holistic education. He also observed a minute of silence for teachers who passed away during the 2025 school year. Yameogo highlighted the theme's call for students to help build a peaceful and prosperous Burkina Faso through civic behavior and tolerance.

Kayaba Alphonse Zongrana, provincial director of Sports and Recreation of Kourittenga, attended the event for the first time and praised the teaching staff for their dedication to the students' well-being. He stated, "The results achieved last year testify to your commitment. It is through you that the sporting talents of tomorrow are born."

Fran§ois Janvier Nikiema, first vice-president of the Special Delegation (PDS) of the commune of Koupela, encouraged students to embrace fair play. He noted, "Playing football is not just about running after the ball, it's also about respecting yourself and respecting your opponent. May the best team win."

The 2025 edition of the CEB cup in Koupela I was won by Tembela A, who defeated Koupela Sud A with a score of one goal to zero.