The 4th edition of the National Traditional Games Festival was held in Daloa, Côte d'Ivoire, from October 3, 2026. Authorities in attendance emphasized the economic and tourism opportunities linked to valorizing traditional games, particularly for young people, artisans, associations, and local service providers. This year's event brought together various stakeholders to explore the potential of traditional games in driving economic growth and promoting cultural tourism.
During the official ceremony, Minister of Youth Promotion, Professional Insertion, and Civic Service, Mamadou Touré, highlighted the economic viability of activities such as workshops, meetings, and visitor services centered around traditional games. He cited examples of potential economic activities, including accommodation, catering, and other local services that could benefit from the valorization of traditional games and related events.
Minister Touré emphasized that young people could capitalize on these opportunities to create enterprises and showcase their talents. However, he noted that this required quality, organization, and skills. Young people interested in this sector must be able to welcome visitors, explain practices, animate activities, and offer experiences that valorize local heritage.
Hien Sié, Director of Cabinet at the Ministry of Culture and Francophonie, representing Minister Françoise Remarck, also underscored the potential of traditional games in promoting cultural tourism and developing creative industries. He noted that this approach went beyond the recreational and patrimonial dimensions of traditional games, highlighting their capacity to support income-generating activities linked to culture, tourism, and services.
The National Traditional Games Festival provides a platform for stakeholders to explore the economic and tourism potential of traditional games. The event showcases various traditional games and activities, offering insights into Côte d'Ivoire's rich cultural heritage. By highlighting the economic benefits of traditional games, the festival aims to promote their valorization and preservation.
The valorization of traditional games is seen as an opportunity for young people to develop skills and create employment opportunities. The sector is expected to contribute to the growth of cultural tourism in Côte d'Ivoire, promoting the country's rich cultural heritage and supporting local economic development.
The 4th edition of the National Traditional Games Festival concluded with a renewed commitment to promoting the economic and tourism potential of traditional games in Côte d'Ivoire. The event demonstrated the importance of preserving and valorizing cultural heritage, while creating opportunities for economic growth and development.
Key points
- The festival highlights the economic potential of traditional games in driving growth and promoting cultural tourism in Côte d'Ivoire.
- Authorities emphasize the need for quality, organization, and skills in valorizing traditional games and related services.
- The event provides a platform for young people to develop skills and create employment opportunities in the cultural tourism sector.
