KOMSILGA — The Salon International Association for Agriculture, Environment, and Livestock (SIAEL) concluded its 7th edition on Saturday in the rural commune of Komsilga, Burkina Faso, with a ceremony recognizing the most outstanding contributors to the rural world. The event, initiated by the Association for the Development of the Rural World (ADMR), awarded ‘Bronze Kuuri’, ‘Silver Kuuri’, and ‘Gold Kuuri’ prizes to the leading actors in the agro-sylvo-pastoral sectors.
According to Burkina Information Agency, this year’s SIAEL saw nine official awards handed out to individuals and organizations that have shown exemplary performance in their fields. In the agricultural sub-sector, Kani Bicaba from Boucle du Mouhoun received the Gold Kuuri along with 2.5 million FCFA and equipment valued at 1 million FCFA. Yvonne Kiénou and Bihoun Bambou were awarded the Silver and Bronze Kuuri, respectively, each receiving equipment and financial rewards for their contributions.
The livestock sector’s top honor, the Gold Kuuri, was claimed by Lassané Sawadogo from the Center region, matching the agricultural sector’s highest award in value. The Silver and Bronze Kuuri awards were presented to the Achrisma agro-pastoral farm and the Sahel Moné Richard agricultural complex, which were recognized with trophies and significant monetary prizes.
In the environment sub-sector, Salifou Ouédraogo emerged victorious, securing the Gold Kuuri and rewards equivalent to those of the top agricultural and livestock producers. The Silver and Bronze Kuuri went to the Femme 2000 association and Fatoumata Sory, acknowledging their impactful contributions with cash prizes and trophies.
Special accolades were also distributed for the best processor of non-wood forest products, the best women’s group, the top organic producer, and the best exhibition stand, showcasing the event’s diverse recognition of rural achievements.
Jean Victor Ouédraogo, SIAEL 2024’s general commissioner and president of ADMR, highlighted the vital role of the rural sector in Burkina Faso’s development. He noted the significant international participation at the event, with over 270 stands and delegates from Mali, the Democratic Republic of Congo, France, Senegal, Niger, and Ivory Coast. Ouédraogo emphasized the importance of self-sufficiency in agriculture, environment, and livestock for the nation’s youth and the overall development of Burkina Faso.
The event also provided a platform for sharing inspirational stories, like that of Lassané Sawadogo, who transitioned from conflict to a peaceful livelihood in breeding, and Salifou Ouédraogo, an environmentalist dedicated to baobab cultivation despite challenges like water scarcity.
SIAEL 2024 took place from February 20 to 24 under the theme “Impact of the security crisis on the agro-sylvo-pastoral sector: inventory and perspectives,” with Mali being the guest country of honor, reinforcing the event’s focus on addressing current challenges and showcasing the resilience and innovation within Burkina Faso’s rural communities.