Burkina faso: The Sahelian diaspora is organizing the International Festival of Gastronomy and Cultural Identity of the Sahelian Diaspora (FIGIC/DSH) in Hamburg, Germany, from June 5 to 7, 2026. This event aims to promote Sahelian cultural values and strengthen connections between diaspora communities and their countries of origin.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the event's spokesperson, Olivia Bayala, stated that the initiative is supported by various Sahelian diaspora associations dedicated to promoting the region's cultures and traditions. The project is a collective effort involving the Authentic Flavors of Africa Association, the Association of Burkinabe in Hamburg, the Association of Nigerians in Germany, and the Council of Malians Abroad in Germany. It is held in partnership with the embassies of Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali, along with the local authorities of Hamburg.
Bayala explained that "FIGIC/DSH was born from a strong conviction: culture is one of the most powerful bridges between peoples. It promotes dialogue, mutual understanding, and cooperation between nations." She highlighted that the festival aims to showcase the gastronomy, crafts, music, and traditions of the Sahelian peoples, emphasizing the richness of their heritage.
The festival's theme is "The Sahelian Diaspora Celebrates its Roots in Hamburg," and it will feature a special space dedicated to traditional relationships between Sahelian peoples. This includes presentations of various forms of joking kinship, a cultural practice fostering social cohesion among communities. Relationships highlighted will include the Fulani of Mali and the Mossi of Burkina Faso, the Tuareg of Niger and the Senufo of Mali, and the Gourounsi of Burkina Faso and the Hausa of Niger.
The event's program will also feature a tasting area for Sahelian dishes, a culinary competition, and workshops for children to learn about traditional Sahelian cooking. Panels and conferences on diaspora, culture, and tradition transmission will be organized, along with an exhibition on Sahelian crafts and cultural activities like music and dance.
For organizers, FIGIC/DSH is an invitation to discovery and sharing, celebrating the Sahel's cultural diversity. Bayala emphasized that the festival allows the Sahelian diaspora to affirm its roots while contributing to the cultural and social dynamics of host societies. She hopes the initiative will strengthen ties between Sahelian communities and open up new prospects for cultural, tourism, and economic cooperation.
Moumouni Kissou, chairman of the festival's stands and exhibition committee, assured that preparations are going smoothly. He noted that organizing teams in Hamburg are actively working to create suitable spaces for food, craft, and cultural promotion stands, enabling exhibitors to showcase their products and expertise to an international audience.