Côte d'Ivoire's Minister délégué auprès du ministre des Transports, chargé des Affaires maritimes, Serey Doh Célestin, has reaffirmed his commitment to promoting the Wê culture. He made this pledge at the seventh edition of the Festival des arts culinaires Wê, also known as FestiKplé, which took place from October 23 to 25, 2026, at the CP1 place in Yopougon. As the festival's patron, Serey Doh Célestin commended the organizing committee for their efforts in valorizing the Wê cultural heritage.
During the festival's closing ceremony on October 25, Serey Doh Célestin expressed his pride in being a Wê son, stating that their culture is their soul. He vowed to continue defending and promoting the Wê culture. The minister announced a financial support of four million FCFA to the festival and presented himself as its "eternal patron." This move demonstrates his dedication to the Wê community and its cultural preservation.
The FestiKplé 2026 event brought together people from the Guémon and Cavally regions, as well as members of other communities. The festival featured traditional and modern dances, including the Tématé and Alloukou, and showcased Agni music. Visitors had the opportunity to sample various Wê culinary specialties at the festival's food stands. The event's theme, "L'autonomisation des femmes et le développement durable," highlighted the importance of women's empowerment and sustainable development.
Kéassio Juliette Yao, the commissaire générale of FestiKplé 2026, provided an overview of the festival's history and thanked the participants, particularly the Agni and Dida communities, who were the special guests of this edition. Her remarks underscored the significance of the festival in promoting cultural exchange and understanding.
Touré Abdouloukadri, the director régional de la Culture à Abidjan, encouraged Wê cultural promoters to unite their initiatives under a single cultural event. This, he believes, will increase their visibility and strengthen the impact of their actions. His statement emphasizes the need for collaboration and strategic planning in cultural promotion.
The festival also featured a traditional chef, Guinbohi Denis, who welcomed the event's success in bringing people together around Wê cuisine, music, and dances. The gathering demonstrated the power of cultural events in fostering community cohesion and pride. The festival's success can be attributed to the collaborative efforts of its organizers and supporters.
The FestiKplé 2026 event not only celebrated Wê culture but also raised awareness about the importance of preserving cultural heritage and adopting environmentally friendly practices. The festival's emphasis on women's empowerment and sustainable development resonated with the attendees. With Serey Doh Célestin's continued support, the Wê culture is likely to thrive and reach a wider audience.
Key points
- Serey Doh Célestin pledges four million FCFA to support FestiKplé.
- The festival's theme highlights women's empowerment and sustainable development.
- The event promotes Wê cultural heritage and encourages environmental awareness.
