TUY — The village of Bonsè in the Koumbia commune, Tuy province, hosted the day of customs and traditions on Wednesday, May 15, 2024. This event saw the convergence of the populations from Kamba, Lopohin, Pohin, Man, and Bonsè, which historically formed the village of Pè. The gathering focused on cultural celebration and peace efforts amid security concerns.

According to Burkina Information Agency, these communities, once part of a single village founded by Kapoué Biètamou de Bonsè, responded to the call of traditional guarantors to celebrate their shared heritage. The event featured performances that highlighted the Bwa culture, including artists, masks, and traditional dances in the village’s public square, attended by administrative, religious, and customary leaders, and monitored by the Volunteers for the Defense of the Fatherland (VDP).

The day’s festivities included performances by artist Wetien Dembélé, displays of Lopohin fiber masks, Pê-Kamba leaf masks, and traditional women’s dances. The event also served as a platform to educate the public on the significance of masks in the Bwa community.

Gnado Kambi, the land chief of Bonsè, expressed gratitude towards the transitional authorities for establishing the day of customs and traditions. He praised the community’s resilience and unity, which he deemed essential for facing ongoing security challenges. Furthermore, Kambi encouraged all communities to foster understanding and unity to surmount upcoming challenges.

Sihi Bouaho, president of the Village Development Committee of Bonsè, highlighted the courage of those attending despite the climate of insecurity and presented several community needs, including school renovations and infrastructure improvements, to the attending officials.

Justin Dofinita Tani, the 1st vice-president of the special municipal delegation of Koumbia, who presided over the ceremony, expressed satisfaction with the participation and the peaceful messages conveyed. He acknowledged the community’s concerns, noting they were incorporated into the Municipal Development Plan, though their implementation was hindered by the security situation. Tani remained hopeful for future advancements with continued communal support and prayers from local dignitaries.