The Littérature sans frontière (LSF) association held its first literary gathering in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, on September 26, 2026. The event, themed "Literature, a Bridge between Cultures and Territories," was attended by various stakeholders, including actors in the book industry, partners, educators, young people, and literature enthusiasts. The gathering was chaired by Michel Saba, chargé de mission at the Ministry of Communication, Culture, Arts, and Tourism.
The LSF association aims to promote literature, education, and youth development. With only three years of existence, the organization has already made significant strides in using literature as a tool for awakening, transmission, and personal growth. The first literary gathering marked a new chapter in the association's history, bringing together people around a theme that seeks to promote dialogue and cultural exchange.
Michel Saba, representing the Minister of Communication, Culture, Arts, and Tourism, praised the initiative, considering it crucial for promoting books and reading in Burkina Faso. He emphasized the essential role of books in transmitting knowledge, fostering civic education, and preserving collective memory. According to Saba, literature contributes to building an enlightened society that values cultural dialogue and openness.
The theme of the gathering, "Literature, a Bridge between Cultures and Territories," highlights the capacity of literature to transcend geographical and cultural boundaries. Saba noted that literary works enable people to better understand and know each other while preserving their unique histories, stories, and traditions. He emphasized the significance of literature in promoting cultural understanding and exchange.
Bernadette Sanou/Dao, the special guest at the event and former Minister of Culture, expressed her enthusiasm for the initiative, seeing it as a symbol of a long-term commitment to promoting literature. She emphasized the need to break down linguistic barriers in Burkinabè literature, enabling readers to access works in their native languages. Sanou/Dao encouraged the public to make reading a genuine practice, beyond just buying books.
Dr. Issaka Ouédraogo, President of LSF, highlighted the significance of literature in preserving and transmitting cultural heritage. He noted that literature is not just about producing texts but also about memory, transmission, and dialogue. The association chose to honor Sanou/Dao, a renowned figure in Burkinabè literature and culture, for her contributions to promoting reading and literature among younger generations.
The first literary gathering of LSF marked a significant milestone for the young organization, which has grown from a family initiative to a collective vision involving volunteers, young enthusiasts, book industry stakeholders, and partners. The event was a moment of celebration, reflection, and renewal, as the association reaffirmed its commitment to using literature as a tool for youth development and cultural promotion.
Key points
- The Littérature sans frontière association aims to promote literature, education, and youth development in Burkina Faso.
- The first literary gathering was themed "Literature, a Bridge between Cultures and Territories," highlighting the role of literature in promoting cultural dialogue and exchange.
- The event was attended by various stakeholders, including actors in the book industry, partners, educators, young people, and literature enthusiasts.
