The picturesque town of Banfora came alive on Thursday as Burkina Faso’s Minister of Communication, Culture, Arts, and Tourism, Gilbert Ouédraogo, inaugurated the first-ever Festival International des Cascades (FESTICAS).
Running from April 10–13, 2025, the event showcases the Cascades region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage while reigniting domestic tourism.
Minister Ouédraogo praised the festival as a « resounding success, » aligning it with Burkina Faso’s broader cultural revival following FESPACO 2025. « Beyond cinema, we must harness tourism’s untapped potential, » he emphasized, urging citizens to explore their country: « Tourism begins with Burkinabe themselves. »
Festival organizers framed FESTICAS as an act of cultural resilience amid security challenges. « Promoting our landmarks is both an economic necessity and a patriotic duty, » noted one promoter.
Attendees can expect guided waterfall tours, artisan markets, live performances, film screenings, and industry workshops—all celebrating the region’s vibrant traditions.
Why it matters:
- Economic boost:The festival diversifies revenue streams in a region historically reliant on agriculture.
- Soft power:By spotlighting natural wonders like the Karfiguéla Falls, Burkina Faso counters negative narratives with cultural pride.
- Grassroots impact:Local artisans and performers gain a platform, reinforcing community ownership of tourism.
As dusk fell over Banfora’s limestone cliffs, the message was clear: even in turbulent times, Burkina Faso’s cultural heartbeat endures.
Cédric KABORE
