Burkina faso: Burkina Faso's Intelligence for Development (IBD) has recognized 13 influential figures across 10 sectors. The Minister of Culture, Pingdwende Gilbert Ouedraogo, was honored in the political governance category.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the president of the IBD, Raogo Hermann Ouedraogo, specifies that it was a committee of experts who, based on the information provided, identified and assessed the choice of these influential personalities.

Raogo Hermann Ouedraogo stated that the 13 individuals were distinguished based on criteria of good moral character, extensive and justified experience, proven social actions, patriotism, as well as renown and respect in their sectors of activity.

The areas concerned include media and communication, culture, health, sport, industry, social responsibility, mining and the environment, urban security, the economy, and political governance.

For Mr. Ouedraogo, this initiative is part of the philosophy of celebrating icons who have positively influenced Burkinabe society, but who remain insufficiently recognized.

He indicated that the mission of the IBD is to contribute to the promotion of a new type of leadership through the conduct of planned and concerted actions, with a view to revealing them to the general public.

The patron of the ceremony, His Majesty Razaang Naaba of Boudry, paid tribute to the winners before expressing his gratitude to the organizers for their noble ambition.

He urged the award winners to remain inspiring examples, earning respect and admiration.

In summary, the committee of experts indicated that Mr. Pingdwende Gilbert Ouedraogo, before deserving this distinction, was able to achieve unanimous agreement in terms of communication, by establishing a more dynamic approach, focused on promoting development actions and territorial reconquest.

In terms of governance as well as cultural, artistic, and tourism promotion, the minister has always been able to meet the challenges.

Under his leadership, the film industry underwent a profound transformation with the creation of the Burkinabe Agency for Cinematography and Audiovisual (ABCA).

Despite the scarcity of resources and sponsors, he held all the major events in his department, including FESPACO, FILO, the Night of the Lompolo, among others.

The minister was represented by his Chief of Staff, Christian Ouattara.