Ouagadougou: The commune of Fara celebrates the very first edition of its mini marathon under the banner of citizenship and youth engagement.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the event took place on Saturday, July 25, 2026, under the high patronage of Comrade Martin BAKO, High Commissioner of the province of Bal. The marathon was graced by the presence of the Presidents of the Special Delegations (PDS) of Fara and Poura, alongside numerous sponsors and honored guests.
A total of 45 athletes, including one woman, participated in the marathon, which was themed "Sport and Citizenship for an Engaged Youth." The event featured the official launch, various speeches, and an awards ceremony as its main highlights. The 21 km out-and-back race commenced at 8:15 a.m., with the first runner from Bankui completing the course in 1 hour, 9 minutes, and 30 seconds. Notably, an 11-year-old boy was among the participants.
During the event, the chairman of the organizing committee expressed gratitude to the participants and supporters who played a role in the competition's success. The President of the Special Delegation of Fara extended thanks to the High Commissioner for attending and acknowledged the efforts of sponsors, the organizing committee, and the marathon runners.
He highlighted the crucial role of sport in society and its positive impact on participants, emphasizing the theme's importance by urging young people to engage in civic responsibilities. Sponsors expressed pride in contributing to the event's success and supporting community development.
The High Commissioner lauded the Fara Sports Development Program and the organizing committee for the event's accomplishment and praised the athletes for their performances. He noted that this edition marks the municipal authority's commitment to realizing the presidential initiative of making sports accessible to all within its jurisdiction.
The event concluded with the awarding of special prizes to the top 10 marathon finishers. The first-place winner received a motorcycle and a fuel voucher, courtesy of the High Commissioner, the Presidential Security Directors, and sponsors. Plans are already underway for a second edition of the mini marathon.