Kaya: The 8th edition of the Tenkodogo Roots Reggae Festival concluded on Sunday in the village of Soumagou, commune of Tenkodogo, following a week filled with cultural, sporting, and training activities.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the event, held under the theme "Music and the revolution of mentalities," brought together artists, traditional authorities, partners, and populations to promote peace, social cohesion, and local development. The festival's closing night featured musical performances from around ten artists, including G©d©on Zombra, Father JB Zombra, Koumboza, DJ Optimiste, and Yonkonba, who is noted for his connection to the traditional Bissa guitar. Other performers included Chameau Band©, Destin©, Paul B©ni, Fadouba, and Rasta Commando Iron Bender.

The performances drew festival-goers from Soumagou and nearby areas, as artists conveyed messages centered on peace, unity, and living together through reggae rhythms and local sounds. The festival promoter, Inoussa Samandoulgou, also known as Fatah Lion, commended the people's mobilization, the artists' dedication, and the partners' support in making this 8th edition possible.

During the ceremony, organizers expressed their appreciation to institutional, technical, and financial partners for their support. They extended thanks to the people of Soumagou, meaning "village of the benefactor," and the residents of neighboring villages for their hospitality and contribution to the event's success.

The chief of Soumagou highlighted the significance of hosting the cultural event, noting that it aids in promoting local cultural heritage and bolstering social cohesion. He offered blessings and sought the ancestors' protection for the festival's continued success.

At the festival's conclusion, organizers reiterated their commitment to establishing the Tenkodogo Roots Reggae Festival as a platform for promoting culture, peace, and development.