Tourism Project Honoring Bwa Revolt Wins Recognition at Ouagadougou Fair

Ouagadougou:Dédougou The "Route of Resistance" tourism project, commemorating the Buaba revolt of 1915-1916, has been awarded third prize in the "Tourism Project Pitch" category at the 2026 Ouagadougou International Tourism and Hospitality Fair (SITHO). The initiative, led by Sanou Dembélé, the provincial director in charge of communication and culture of Koosin, aims to highlight the historical heritage of Bankui, focusing on the memory of Pahoba Dissa, a legendary figure of Tchériba.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the "Route of Resistance" serves as a tourist circuit designed to retrace the events of the Bwa revolt and showcase significant locations tied to its history. The route includes the towns of Bondoukuy, Ouarkoye, Kona, Safané, Tchériba, Dédougou, Bourasso, Nouna, and Djibasso, aiming to pass on historical and cultural landmarks to future generations.

Sanou Dembélé emphasized the symbolic significance of rehabilitating this chapter of national history, describing the Bwa revolt as foundational to later Burkinabè revolutions, such as the 1983 uprising with Thomas Sankara and the current movement with Captain Ibrahim Traoré. In Tchériba, visitors are invited to learn about Pahoba Dissa, renowned for his exceptional strength and revered in local lore.

Siaka Dissa, a local court assessor, shared anecdotes about Pahoba Dissa's legendary feats, including his remarkable ability to prepare meals of unusual size, requiring seven young men to knead the dough. He is also remembered for aiding villagers in Mâna with agricultural tasks, leaving a lasting impact on the community.

The Dissa family preserves several artifacts attributed to Pahoba Dissa, including large bracelets and a flute, which were central to local traditions and rituals. These objects, along with his tomb, are considered key elements in enhancing Tchériba's historical and touristic heritage.

Sanou Dembélé plans to continue his research into other municipalities involved in the circuit and to expand the project to regions in Mali. A book documenting these efforts is forthcoming, and Dembélé has expressed gratitude for the support from Tchériba's municipal authorities in presenting the initiative at the SITHO jury.

This project not only seeks to preserve collective memory but also aims to promote cultural tourism and transmit the history of the people of Bankui to future generations.