Ouagadougou: The Soci©t© des A©roports du Faso (SAFA) marked its presence at the 22nd edition of the National Culture Week (SNC) through an exhibition stand and direct support to artists, notably through the establishment of special prizes at the Grand Prix national des arts et des lettres (GPNAL), indicated the Secretary General of the company, Pangnes Louisette Bassonon/Bonzi, on Thursday.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the four special prizes at the GPNAL are divided into two main categories. These are performing arts, with an award dedicated to the best traditional instrumental music in the youth category, and visual arts, where the best in painting, sculpture, and batik are awarded.
The company's Secretary General, Pangnes Louisette Bassonon/Bonzi, explained that this participation responds to a desire to bring airport infrastructure closer to the cultural sector in order to support the dynamics of local cultural and creative industries, while promoting national talent. 'Supporting culture is part of our mission to modernize and develop our infrastructure,' said Ms. Bassonon, specifying that infrastructure development is inspired by culture.
This initiative is also part of SAFA's strategic vision, which aims to make airports "true hubs of modernity, innovation and value creation serving the national economy," she added. During the SNC, welcoming activities took place at Bobo-Dioulasso International Airport, where dance performances and traditional sounds were offered to welcome guests and festival-goers arriving by air, according to the SG.
SAFA's presence also aims to develop economic opportunities. Through its ticketing service "SAFA Voyage," the company informed visitors about the possibility of purchasing airline tickets with specific benefits, including access to the VIP lounge, usually reserved for business class passengers. The booth also served as a platform for gathering public feedback. According to the SG, this feedback will help improve the quality of services offered and better meet user expectations.
Furthermore, SAFA took advantage of the event to present its missions which include, among other things, managing the airports of Burkina Faso while developing non-aeronautical revenue-generating activities, particularly in tourism and related services. Among the flagship projects showcased were the development of Bobo-Dioulasso airport, the construction of Ouagadougou-Donsin airport, and the modernization of airfields in the interior of the country, notably in Dori and Fada. Visuals of these completed projects and future plans were presented to the public at the booth.
With just days to go before closing, officials welcome the enthusiasm surrounding SNC 2026, while expressing the hope that future editions will offer more cultural and economic opportunities.