Zondoma: The royal court of Gourcy vibrated this Friday, May 15, 2026, to the rhythm of the day of customs and traditions marked by the official launch of the "who am I" competition for the students of k©ogo called "Banko©ss©".

According to Burkina Information Agency, the competition is part of an effort to educate the younger generation about traditional values through the K©ogo tradition. It was officially launched by the Chief of Gourcy during the celebration of Customs and Traditions Day at the Royal Palace of Gourcy under the theme "The Role and Place of K©ogo in Development and Social Peace". The competition involves each child interviewing their parents or other trusted individuals about their origins, such as the meaning of their family name, family taboos, and the identity of their grandparents. They will then prepare a presentation for the next K©ogo student gathering.

His Majesty Naaba Baongo emphasized that the competition is not merely a contest but a pathway for young people to discover their roots. Activities such as a sacrificial ritual at the royal altar, millstone demonstrations by the royal family women, a conference on k©ogo, symbolic tree planting, and the installation of neighborhood chiefs were part of the celebration of the 3rd annual Day of Customs and Traditions in Gourcy.

Naaba Baongo, in his address, expressed gratitude to the highest authorities for establishing this day, viewing it as a means to strengthen cohesion between traditional leaders and other religions. He also thanked those dedicated to ensuring the success of the k©ogo, contributing to the restoration of social values. The celebrations commenced with a lively walk organized by the hiking clubs of Passor©, Yatenga, and Zondoma, marking the beginning of the May 15th festivities. The k©ogo, or traditional school, has been established in Gourcy since February.