Ouagadougou: The promoter of the Lawatan Permaculture Centre, Marthe To/Par, winner of the first Yacouba Sawadogo Prize, 2026 edition, presented her trophy on Wednesday, August 19, 2026 to the Governor of the Guiriko region, Mariama Konat/Gnanou.

According to Burkina Information Agency, Marthe To/Par was accompanied by the Regional Director of Water and Forests of Guiriko, Colonel Hassime Rabo, during the presentation of the award. This recognition was received during the "night of the tree," an event organized as part of the National Tree Day (JNA) 2026.

The Lawatan Permaculture Centre, located in Kouakoual, in the 5th district of Bobo-Dioulasso, spans 40 hectares. Acquired in 2007, the formerly neglected rocky site now hosts baobab, moringa, and aromatic plant crops, along with plant species threatened with extinction and several non-timber forest products.

Governor Mariama Konat/Gnanou commended the winner, highlighting her dedication to environmental preservation. "This is a fine example of environmental patriotism. I strongly encourage you to continue in this direction," she remarked.

Further, the governor encouraged collaboration between the project promoter and the Water and Forestry Department to bolster environmental restoration initiatives. The Yacouba Sawadogo Prize includes a trophy and a check for two million CFA francs.