Bobo-dioulasso: The 22nd edition of the National Culture Week (SNC) Bobo 2026 is set to take place from April 25 to May 2, 2026, in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. Christiane Sanon/Coulibaly, Director General of the SNC, discussed the organization's mission and preparations for the cultural biennial in an interview.

According to Burkina Information Agency, Sanon/Coulibaly shared insights on the recent Regional Culture Weeks, which spanned from September to November 2025 across 14 cultural regions of Burkina Faso and three diaspora countries: Niger, C´te d'Ivoire, and Mali. Niger joined this year, ensuring representation from all three member countries of the African and Southern African Regions. Sanon/Coulibaly noted an improvement in artistic performances and increased participation compared to previous editions.

Sanon/Coulibaly estimated that approximately 1,799 to 2,000 participants, including troupe leaders, are expected to attend SNC Bobo 2026. She reported that while preparations are underway, financial challenges persist, leading the organization to seek additional support from partners, alongside the increased government grant received this year.

Expressing gratitude to partners for their past support, Sanon/Coulibaly emphasized the importance of their continued assistance to meet the event's goals. She encouraged festival-goers to engage with the activities and support the artists competing for the National Arts and Letters Grand Prize, while also adhering to safety and health guidelines.

Beyond organizing SNC, Sanon/Coulibaly highlighted the General Directorate's broader mission as a state-run public institution, including the development of management tools such as a procedures manual, a strategic development plan, and a communication strategy to enhance visibility.

Sanon/Coulibaly envisions significant developments for SNC in the next decade, aiming to promote Grand Prix winners globally and realizing the Cit© des artistes project. Currently, the project is secured with a perimeter fence, with hopes for continued construction.

Sanon/Coulibaly concluded by expressing optimism for the future, aspiring for international recognition of competition winners and the establishment of dedicated spaces for artists and competitions.