SOLENZO — The town of Solenzo is vibrant with festivities as residents celebrate the Tabaski festival, countering the rumors of chaos spread through social networks. The celebrations mark a significant recovery from the town’s previous struggles with terrorist attacks, showcasing a day filled with joy and communal activities.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the air in Solenzo is filled with the sound of music and laughter, as various drinking establishments are crowded with revelers. Security, bolstered by assistant volunteers, remains tight to ensure the safety of those in attendance and to manage the bustling traffic. Despite early fears of disruption due to a recent encounter between local security forces and terrorists, the town experiences a peaceful and festive atmosphere. At 5 pm, streets were bustling with residents either visiting friends and relatives or returning home to continue the celebrations. Children were seen moving from door to door, collecting coins, a tradition accompanied by the cheerful greeting of “sambé-sambé.”
Inoussa Ouedraogo, a local, shared his relief and satisfaction with the current state of security, attributing the peaceful environment to the effective actions of the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP) and the Security and Defense Forces (FDS). He praised the efforts of these groups in maintaining order and expressed his gratitude towards their ongoing dedication to securing the region.
Contrary to what was being circulated on social media about a supposed state of “total confusion” following a recent operation by the VDP, security sources clarified that although there was a confrontation on the eve of the festival near Bonza, it did not result in any casualties or significant disturbances within the VDP ranks.
The residents of Solenzo are making the most of the festive day, appreciating the hard-won peace and stability in their community. “The party is beautiful and thank God we ate and drank well,” Ouedraogo concluded, highlighting the general sentiment of happiness among the people.