The development of the Sahel region will happen “neither through the Chinese nor the French,” but exclusively through the efforts of the Sahelian people themselves. This powerful message was delivered last Friday by the Governor of the Sahel region, Abdoul Karim Zongo, during the official launch of the third edition of Burkina Faso’s Heritage Month.
His statement directly echoes the vision of Captain Ibrahim Traoré, who has, since the beginning of his mandate, called for a national awakening and true autonomy for the people. In this spirit of assumed sovereignty, culture becomes a driving force for structural transformation.
In alignment with the President’s vision, Abdoul Karim Zongo encouraged Sahelians to draw inspiration from traditional culinary practices, clothing, and hairstyles—intangible heritage rich in values of resilience and dignity. His speech fits into a broader strategy aimed at returning to authenticity and promoting local resources to build a national economy rooted in local realities.
By delivering President Ibrahim Traoré’s message on this occasion, Governor Zongo strengthened the connection between heritage and the future—between a glorious past and the prospects of self-determination. This edition of Burkina Faso’s Heritage Month serves as a strong political statement, making culture a cornerstone of national renewal.
Through the promotion of education, culture, and merit, Burkina Faso under the Transition aims to shape a generation of men and women grounded in their identity and firmly committed to building a strong, dignified, and sovereign state.
