Houet: The Ministry of Sports, Youth and Employment officially launched the 4th edition of the National Youth Sports Games (JNRS) this Friday in Bobo-Dioulasso, through a popular cross-country race followed by an aerobics session, in order to promote sports performance and civic values among young people.

According to Burkina Information Agency, athletes, coaches, sports officials, Defense and Security Forces (FDS), and civil society of the city of Bobo-Dioulasso participated in this launch activity, which was organized in front of the esplanade of the Sangoul© Lamizana omnisports stadium. The ceremony was presided over by the Secretary General of the Ministry of Sports, Youth and Employment, Collette Ou©draogo. She encouraged the young athletes to strive for excellence while cultivating fair play, fraternity, patriotism, and a sense of responsibility.

Collette Ou©draogo stated, "For this fourth edition, we have brought together approximately 3,000 people, including coaches and instructors. We simply want to ask them to perform well for themselves, for their clubs, and for the country. My message is one of fair play, fraternity, patriotism, and responsibility." She also announced awareness sessions for young people, conducted by departments within the Ministry, on the values associated with the Popular Progressive Revolution.

Abdallah Golo, the head of youth sports development, mentioned that the popular cross-country race marks the official start of this year's activities. "We have just witnessed an official launch through the popular cross-country race. The turnout was huge. Athletes and key figures from the city of Sya came out in droves to support us," he said.

In addition to the competitions, the National Youth Sports Days (JNRS) include discussions and awareness sessions on patriotism and citizenship. Over ten days, young athletes will compete in sports such as basketball, volleyball, handball, and football. The football competition will bring together 32 teams and will take place on various fields.

The grand finale is scheduled for Saturday, September 26, 2026, at the Wobi Stadium in Bobo-Dioulasso. The 4th National Sports Days (JNRS) will be held from September 16 to 27, 2026, in Bobo-Dioulasso, under the patronage of the Minister of Sports, Youth and Employment, Annick Pikbougoum/Zingu© Ouattara.