Koudougou: The Bourkina district of Koudougou became a hub of cultural activity as it celebrated the Nabasga of Naaba Baongho, the chief of the Bourkina district. This event not only marked the 20th anniversary of the chief’s reign but also served as a celebration of youth and a reaffirmation of the values of Bourkindi.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the ceremony was initiated at 10 a.m. with the chief making three official appearances, each time donning togas of distinct symbolic colors. The red toga represented war and authority, underscoring the chief’s protective role. The white toga symbolized purity and peace, highlighting social harmony’s significance. Lastly, a multicolored toga celebrated the community’s diversity and richness.
This year’s theme, “Youth and the Value of Bourkindi: Contribution of Traditional Leadership to Exemplary Cohesion and Development,” was central to the speeches delivered. Aziz Zoma, the speaker for the day, emphasized Bourkindi, meaning “integrity” in Mooré, as a
n ancestral value promoting loyalty, sincerity, respect, and patriotism. He expressed concern over the erosion of these values in contemporary society, characterized by moral decay and a pursuit of easy success.
Zoma highlighted the essential role of traditional leaders in promoting Bourkindi among the youth. He advocated for cultural activities, including traditional storytelling and educational frameworks, to impart these values and teachings to the younger generations.
Various communities seized the opportunity to extend their greetings to the chief. Local authorities, traditional leaders of Koudougou, religious community representatives, and delegations from different areas conveyed their respect and commitment to the chiefdom.
A notable moment was the presence of a delegation from Koupela, led by Father Joseph Yameogo. He elaborated on the ancestral ties between the Yameogo of Koupela and Koudougou, stressing the importance of reunions and strengthening community bonds. He mentioned that Maurice Yameo
go, the first president of Upper Volta, originally from Koudougou, frequented Koupela due to these ancestral connections and contributed to the local community by building a school and a dam.
Naaba Saaga 1st, the chief of Issouka, also took the opportunity to highlight the merits of the Songnaam association. This association, comprising traditional chiefs from Koudougou, aims to resolve conflicts and foster community ties for robust social cohesion.
The ceremony concluded with a traditional “Zoom-Koom,” a cocktail offered by the chief to his guests, symbolizing sharing and communion.