Tannounyan: The Minister of Sports, Youth and Employment, Annick Lydie Djouma Pikbougoum/Zingue Ouattara, conducted a field visit to Banfora in the Tannounyan region, focusing on the rehabilitation of the Youth Listening and Dialogue Center.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the minister's visit was organized by the Ministry through the Directorate General for Youth Empowerment and Lifelong Learning as part of the national youth policy. The visit included stops at the Banfora Youth Listening and Dialogue Center, the Regional Directorate of Youth and Employment, and the Regional Directorate of Sports, with a specific focus on the rehabilitation project for the Banfora center.
During her tour, the minister met with staff from the regional directorates, encouraging unity, teamwork, and punctuality, which she identified as essential for achieving the Ministry's goals. She highlighted the importance of cooperation between the youth and sports services to prevent failures within the Ministry.
The rehabilitation initiative, launched in 2025, aims to digitize youth centers across Burkina Faso. The minister noted that the process is in the acceptance phase, commending the work done at the Banfora center.
The Minister also acknowledged the support of technical and financial partners, including the Danish Embassy and UNICEF, in realizing this initiative. She urged young people to utilize the center for training, art, internet access, and study, while also encouraging responsible use of its resources, such as the on-site well.
Arsene K. Some, the Regional Director of Sports, expressed gratitude to the minister for her visit, which he viewed as motivational for the staff. He addressed concerns regarding insufficient staff, budget, and resources, emphasizing that these were not demands but aspirations to improve public service.
The staff representatives reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the minister's efforts and ensuring the success of the Ministry's initiatives for the betterment of Burkina Faso's sports and youth sectors.