Dr. Koudbi Desire Kabore Publishes History of Sourgoubila Spanning Centuries

Sourgoubila:Historian and teacher-researcher at Joseph Ki-Zerbo University, Dr. Koudbi Desire Kabore, unveiled his latest book, "From Surgu to Surgubila: History and Memory from the 16th Century to the Present Day," at a ceremony on October 3, 2026. This work explores the history of Sourgoubila, a locality in Kourweogo, and consists of 200 pages divided into two parts and eleven chapters.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the dedication event for the book was held under the patronage of Pingdwende Gilbert Ouedraogo, the Minister of Communication, Culture, Arts and Tourism, who is also the government spokesperson. The book traces the historical ties between Sourgoubila and Surgu, focusing on their origins and development over the centuries.

The first part of the book details the geographical setting and the founding of Surgu, located in the province of Boulkiemde. It covers the political evolution of Surgu from its first sovereign, Naaba Nongr Sango, to the present Naaba Ziiri. It also addresses the founding of Sourgoubila and its chieftaincy, alongside its relationships with the neighboring principalities of Lalle and Ouagadougou.

The second section delves into traditional religious beliefs and practices. The High Commissioner of the Kourweogo province, Mahamadi Congo, praised Dr. Kabore’s work for its educational significance and its role in fostering reconciliation and social cohesion among communities.

Jean-Baptiste Ilboudo, representing the sponsors, commended the initiative of the intellectual elites from Surgu and Sourgoubila chiefdoms. He emphasized the importance of communities documenting their history themselves and encouraged the integration of the book into educational settings to preserve cultural heritage.

The ceremony concluded with expressions of gratitude from the canton chief of Sourgoubila to the attending delegations from Ganzourgou, Boulkiemde, and Yadega, and a wish for peace and security in Burkina Faso.