Ouagadougou: The Place de la R©volution in Ouagadougou hosted, on Friday, the 4th edition of the collective breaking of the fast and Lent organized by young people committed to peace, social cohesion and community engagement.

According to Burkina Information Agency, this event was themed "Christians and Muslims, all Burkinabe" and was initiated by the association "Zero Drop of Blood on the road". The focus is on strengthening living together and promoting understanding between the different religious denominations in Burkina Faso.

The event's organizer, Moumouni Koudougou, emphasized that the goal is to ensure that everyone, irrespective of their religious beliefs, understands that other individuals are not enemies but fellow Burkinab¨. Koudougou explained that the aim is to help participants recognize that faith is an intimate relationship with God and that imposing one's faith on others is not necessary.

Koudougou further highlighted the importance of national identity over religious or ethnic identity. He pointed out that identity cards do not mention religion or ethnicity, only Burkinab¨ nationality, stressing that this collective national identity should be the foundation for building the country. He reiterated the significance of investing in peace and unity to prevent divisions and maintain social harmony.

The Mogho Naaba, represented at the event, commended the organizers' efforts and encouraged the continuation of such initiatives to strengthen cohesion among the country's various religious groups. Similarly, the Catholic Church's representative urged the faithful to pray for Burkina Faso, hoping for divine favor to foster fraternity and peace.

The Protestant churches' representative also called for divine protection over the nation, expressing hope that God's guidance would bolster Burkina Faso's unity, particularly among the youth. This annual gathering serves as a platform for sharing, fraternity, and dialogue among religious communities, emphasizing the critical need for national unity.

The organizing committee includes members from various religious backgrounds, such as Muslims, Catholics, Evangelicals, and traditionalists, showcasing a collaborative effort toward peace and understanding.