Manga: Residents of Manga, the capital of the Center-South region, have officially launched a walking club comprising over 200 members to encourage regular sports practice and promote social cohesion. This initiative aims to enhance the physical well-being of its participants.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Benoît Sankara, one of the initiators of the Manga sports walking club, stated that the club was established to maintain physical fitness through walking while fostering social cohesion by bringing together a diverse group of people. Sankara made these remarks during the inaugural march, which marked the official launch of the club, attended by hundreds of participants, including guests from other clubs across the country.
Sankara explained that the idea for the club originated approximately three years ago among a small group of walkers. Over time, the group expanded to include individuals from various socio-professional backgrounds and age groups. Currently, the club boasts more than 200 memb
ers, with weekly participation ranging from 30 to 60 individuals of both sexes during the 15-kilometre walking sessions between Manga and Sakuilga.
The launch of the Manga sports walking club signifies its official recognition at the local and national levels, particularly with the umbrella federation of sports walking in Burkina Faso. Christophe Kéré, representing the Burkina Walking Club, commended the Manga team for accomplishing the challenge of its official launch, highlighting the dynamism of the members.
Robert Sawadogo from the Kaya club expressed pride in participating in the launch activities and encouraged everyone to join, emphasizing that walking is a sport accessible to all, regardless of age or gender. Kéré also urged the people of Manga to actively engage in regular walking sessions and incorporate this activity into their daily routines.
He emphasized that all walking clubs operate on fundamental principles such as solidarity, mutual respect, and commitment, asserting that these clubs are
autonomous and founded on these values. Regarding participation in the Manga walking club, Sankara clarified that there are no conditions, assuring that participation is free and voluntary.
Benoît Keré highlighted that, in addition to the first Ouagadougou-Loumbila sports walking club created in 2021, Burkina Faso now has several officially recognized clubs, including those in Koudougou, Tenkodogo, Kaya, Fada, and now Manga.
