Burkina Faso: A look back at Burkina Faso director Dani Kouyaté, who wins the Étalon d’or de Yennenga, in the presence of President Ibrahim Traoré
On Saturday, March 1, 2025, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, President of Faso, awarded the prestigious Etalon d’Or of Yennenga, the highest honor of the Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou (FESPACO), to Burkinabe director Dani Kouyaté for his film “Katanga, the Dance of Scorpions.” This esteemed award, which includes a trophy and a financial prize of 20 million CFA francs, recognizes a cinematic work that has made a significant impact on the 29th edition of the festival.
Dani Kouyaté, a prominent figure in African cinema, once again demonstrated his talent and commitment to African culture with “Katanga, the Dance of Scorpions”. The film, which delves into deep and universal themes, captivated both the audience and the jury with its powerful storytelling, meticulous direction, and poignant message. This victory not only celebrates Kouyaté’s work but also highlights the excellence of Burkinabe cinema on the international stage.
In his acceptance speech, Dani Kouyaté dedicated the award to the armed forces of Burkina Faso, who are fighting daily for the country’s security and peace. This symbolic gesture underscores the crucial role of defense and security forces in maintaining national stability, allowing cultural events like FESPACO to take place in a peaceful environment.
After the closing ceremony, President Ibrahim Traoré expressed his pride in a tweet, praising the film industry for the tremendous success of the 29th edition of FESPACO. He also congratulated Dani Kouyaté for his victory, emphasizing that this award is a source of pride for all of Burkina Faso. The President reaffirmed his support for culture and the film industry, key drivers of the country’s development and global recognition.
This 29th edition of FESPACO once again confirmed the festival’s central role in promoting African cinema.
