Ouagadougou: The Manegre School Troupe of Lioudougou 'A' (TSMA) from the Lioudougou public primary school in the CEB of Kongoussi 2, Bam province, is intensifying its preparations for the final phase of the 22nd edition of the National Culture Week (SNC) 2026 in Bobo-Dioulasso.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the troupe was established in January 2025 to allow students to showcase their talents beyond the sports and cultural competitions organized by the CEB, in which they have previously won several prizes in ballet.
For its inaugural participation in the regional qualifiers held in September 2025 in the Centre-Nord region, the troupe successfully qualified in the ballet discipline. Comprising eleven performers supervised by six teachers, TSMA has been engaged in intensive preparations since January 2026, aiming for top placement in its category at this cultural biennial.
Despite their efforts, the troupe faces significant challenges, including limited time due to the school calendar, insufficient rehearsal space, and a pressing shortage of financial resources essential for optimal preparation. Emmanuel Ouedraogo, head of the troupe, explained that their budget for participating in the SNC is not fully covered, complicating their preparation as essential expenses remain unmet. The troupe still needs equipment, sets, sound equipment, costumes, and catering for the children during rehearsals.
In light of these constraints, the coaches and students remain determined to represent Bam Province with dignity. They are appealing to sports and cultural promoters, well-wishers, and the Ministry of Education for material and financial support to ensure a worthy participation in the 2026 National Cultural Week (SNC), scheduled to take place in the Guiriko region from April 25 to May 2.
The Provincial Directorate of Preschool, Primary and Non-Formal Education (DPEPPNF) of Bam has encouraged all its staff, both internal and external, to contribute to supporting the troupe, enabling it to validly represent the education stakeholders of Bam at this significant celebration of Burkinabe culture.