Ziniaré:The 15th edition of the International Symposium of Granite Sculpture of Laongo is scheduled to take place from November 2 to 23, 2026, at the Laongo sculpture site. The announcement was made by Dr. Moctar Sanfo, the Secretary General of the Ministry in charge of Culture and Chairman of the Organising Committee, during a press conference.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the event will be held under the patronage of the Head of State, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, and will feature a creative residency, a training workshop, an international scientific symposium, a "granite symposium village", as well as sporting and popular activities. A catalogue of works will also be published from 2024.

Dr. Sanfo revealed that 20 professional sculptors from Burkina Faso and other countries are expected to participate, alongside around forty exhibition stands. The symposium will be sponsored by renowned Malian visual artist Abdoulaye Konaté, with former Minister of Culture Mahamoudou Ouédraogo as the guest of honor.

The symposium aims to promote access to culture, strengthen regional artistic cooperation, facilitate the transmission of know-how, and contribute to the economic development of local actors. It also seeks to enhance the cultural influence of Burkina Faso and bolster artistic cooperation, particularly with countries in the Confederation of Sahel States (AES).

The official opening and closing ceremonies will take place on November 10 and 23, 2026, and access to the activities will be free. Dr. Sanfo encouraged the public, families, young people, and visitors to attend in large numbers to engage with the artists and celebrate cultural heritage.

The Laongo International Granite Sculpture Symposium, established in 1989 by Burkinabè sculptor Siriki Ky, is a significant event in contemporary sculpture, serving as a platform for artists, researchers, and the public to share skills and enrich artistic heritage.