Bobo-Dioulasso:The Sidwaya Houet Marathon, set to commence on November 14, 2026, in Bobo-Dioulasso, has surpassed its initial expectations with a total of 2,154 registered athletes, as announced by Jean Marie Toé, Secretary General of Sidwaya Editions, during a press conference.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the event, which follows a successful first edition in 2025 that attracted over 1,200 participants, is organized in collaboration with the Bobo-Dioulasso municipality. The marathon aims to promote social cohesion and solidarity under the theme "Youth and the RPP, united by sport, committed to peace."
The registration details reveal that 151 participants are set for the 21km half-marathon, termed the "National Elite," while 2,003 athletes will compete in the 10km "Regional Elite" race. The 21km race, open to Burkinabè athletes, will start at 700 a.m. at the Sidwaya publishing house's Western regional office. The 10km race is designated for Guiriko region residents, focusing on schoolchildren with separate male and female categories.
Prizes for the top 40 finishers in the national competition range from 20,000 to 300,000 CFA francs, with additional prizes for regional athletes. The regional competition will award the top 40 men and women with prizes from 10,000 to 200,000 CFA francs. Cash and in-kind prizes, including two motorcycles from a partner, will also be awarded.
To enhance the regional competition, special measures have been implemented this year to prioritize local talent. As explained by Salim Bonkoungou of the Burkina Faso Athletics Federation, competitors in the 10km race must reside in the Guiriko region and be students, aiming to support their progression to elite levels.
A comprehensive security and health protocol is in place, involving various national and municipal security and emergency services. Jean Marie Toé has urged public cooperation with security personnel to ensure the event's smooth operation.
In addition to the marathon, a fun run is scheduled for November 13th, and a marathon village will operate from November 12th to 15th to engage residents and stakeholders. The event's budget was approximately 30 million CFA francs, though actual expenditures have surpassed this amount, necessitating increased resource mobilization for future editions.