Ouagadougou: Quranic student Mohamed Wandaogo claimed the 2026 Golden Quran Award on Sunday for his complete memorization of the Holy Book. This achievement marked the conclusion of the 6th edition of the regional Holy Quran memorization competition, which took place from February 25 to March 1, 2026, at the Grand Mosque of Ouagadougou.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Wandaogo stood out in the top category of memorizing the entire Quran with his flawless mastery of the verses and the quality of his recitation, as noted by the jury. He was honored with the prestigious "Golden Quran" trophy, a cash prize of two million CFA francs from the patron of the 6th edition, His Majesty Mogho Naaba Baongho, and a plot of land in Tanghin-Dassouri offered by the guest of honor. Additionally, he received a certificate and a tablet.
The second and third place winners in this category, a Burkinabe and a Togolese, also received rewards. Prizes were distributed to the top three in other categories, including Quranic recitation, memorization of a quarter of the Quran, and memorization of half the Quran. Special prizes were awarded for the most beautiful voice, the youngest candidate at 14 years old, and distinctions for the best female candidates.
The ceremony saw attendance from religious and traditional leaders, as well as the military chaplain representing the administrative authorities. They expressed appreciation for the authorities' support and offered prayers for peace and social cohesion in Burkina Faso.
Under the theme "The Holy Quran, a source of peace and truth," the event gathered 300 competitors from Burkina Faso and Togo. After preliminary rounds in Ouagadougou and Bobo-Dioulasso, 48 candidates competed in the Burkinabe capital for the final on February 25, 2026.
Promoter El Hadj Aboubacar Kafando aims to foster excellence in learning the Holy Quran and promote the values of peace and truth advocated by Islam through this competition. For El Hadji Kafando, organizing this event during Ramadan encourages the gathering of Muslims from varied backgrounds, emphasizing that the Holy Quran was revealed during this month of penitence.