Ouahigouya — The 8th edition of the ‘Lagmtaaba’ maracana football tournament began on Saturday in Ouahigouya, uniting the local community through the sport with a focus on social cohesion and resilience. The event, which features 32 teams competing for the title, aims to foster unity and solidarity among the youth amid ongoing security and humanitarian challenges.

According to Burkina Information Agency, Issouf Bagaya, also known as ‘Watao’, the tournament is a cherished local tradition despite the challenging conditions. “The chosen theme for this year is designed to encourage young people to unite and join hands, promoting resilience and unity in response to the area’s security and humanitarian issues,” Bagaya explained during the opening ceremony.

The tournament kicked off with an opening match at the field of sector 4, where the Soufis Service team defeated the youth team with a score of 2-0. The event also served as a platform for broader community engagement, with several initiatives presented to green the city, reflecting a commitment to environmental sustainability. Moussa Dramé, representing the Special Delegation of Ouahigouya, attended the event, endorsing the community’s efforts against climate change through tree planting and maintenance.

The final match is scheduled for August 31, 2024, promising a significant turnout from the youth of Ouahigouya at the sector 4 field, as the tournament continues to be a highlight of the local sports calendar.