Ouagadougou: The 1st edition of the International Festival of Kinship and Joking Alliance (FIPAP), initiated by the Faso Rakiiré association, officially began its activities at the Newton de Wayalghin high school field in Ouagadougou. A football match marked the opening, with the Gourmantchés emerging victorious over the Yadcés by 4 goals to 2.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the match was part of the festival’s joking relationship theme and took place on Friday, November 30, 2024. The festival aims to foster social cohesion among different communities in Burkina Faso. The Gourmantchés, referred to as “sand tappers,” competed against the Yadcés, whom they jokingly call “slaves,” in a match consisting of two 15-minute halves.
Abel Lankoandé, the spokesman for the Gourmantchés team, humorously commented on the Yadcés’ football skills, suggesting they are better at eating rice than playing football. He noted, “They should have brought a bus to transport their goals, but we took pity on them and we onl
y scored 4 goals.” Lankoandé also praised the Faso Rakiiré association for its efforts to promote unity among Burkina Faso’s communities.
In response, Somaïla Barry, the spokesperson for the Yadcés team from KalasaKa, acknowledged the Gourmantchés’ victory. He jested that the Gourmantchés used their sand to secure the win. Barry expressed appreciation for the association’s initiative, emphasizing the importance of such events in encouraging peaceful coexistence within the nation.
The festival will see participation from 14 communities, including the Bobos, Gourmantchés, Yadcés, Mossi, Dagaris, and Lobis. Niger has been invited as the guest country of honor, with Ghana serving as a model country for the event.