The 16th edition of the Ouagadougou International Tourism and Hospitality Fair (SITHO) is currently underway, featuring the second "Bougousso de la diversité" event on September 24, 2026. This event, held on the SIAO esplanade, was themed around women and included various artistic performances. The Minister of Culture, Pingdwendé Gilbert Ouédraogo, attended the event and emphasized the importance of valuing African history and heroes.
The "Bougousso de la diversité" evenings, initiated in 2024, aim to strengthen the connection between culture and tourism. Minister Ouédraogo explained that the government wants to promote the tourism-culture nexus, combining cultural events with a tourist aspect, known as "mise en tourisme." This approach seeks to encourage Burkinabè people to reclaim their history and highlight their cultural references.
Minister Ouédraogo stressed the need for Burkinabè people to document and celebrate their national heroes. He stated that many heroes have been forgotten and that it is essential to identify, document, and celebrate them. According to him, each community in Burkina Faso has historical figures, often unknown, whose stories deserve to be transmitted to future generations.
The minister also expressed his satisfaction with the presence of children at the event, who performed with artist Mariah Bissongo. He sees this as a positive sign for the future of cultural heritage, emphasizing the importance of transmitting knowledge to young generations. He encouraged parents to accompany their children to cultural events, allowing them to learn from traditional knowledge holders.
The "Bougousso de la diversité" evenings feature various artistic performances, including theater, music, and dance. The event on September 24 included a theatrical representation of the story of Princess Guimbi Ouattara and war leader Tiéfo Amoro, as well as performances by artists such as Thaliane, Adjaratou Diabaté, and Amzi Franc.
The next "Bougousso de la diversité" event is scheduled for September 25, 2026, and will focus on communities and coexistence. The initiative aims to promote traditional knowledge and skills while ensuring their transmission to young generations. Minister Ouédraogo invited parents to support their children's participation in cultural events, fostering a sense of pride and connection to their heritage.
The SITHO 2026 event continues to showcase Burkina Faso's rich cultural diversity, with various activities and performances. The minister's call to celebrate national heroes resonates with the event's goals, highlighting the importance of preserving and promoting Burkinabè culture. The "Bougousso de la diversité" evenings have become an integral part of the SITHO experience, offering a unique platform for artistic expression and cultural exchange.
Key points
- Minister Gilbert Ouédraogo urges Burkinabè people to identify, document, and celebrate their national heroes.
