Ouagadougou: Prime Minister Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ou©draogo, standing in for the President of Faso, emphasized the significance of cultural heritage as a bastion of resilience in today's world, which is characterized by a loss of reference points. This declaration was made during the inauguration of Burkinabe Heritage Month.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the Prime Minister highlighted the role of culture in resisting external pressures, asserting national identity, fostering unity, and ensuring a dignified place for Burkina Faso in the global community for future generations. The Heritage Month, themed "Cultural Heritage and Economic Development," aims to celebrate national cultural treasures and enhance public awareness of their preservation.
Prime Minister Ou©draogo called upon the nation's key stakeholders to actively participate in the month's activities, encouraging the exploration and celebration of shared cultural heritage. He urged media, intellectuals, and knowledge bearers to promote public enthusiasm for national values and social cohesion.
Traditional leaders were asked to embody the enduring spirit of the Burkinabe people, while cultural actors were called upon to champion Burkina Faso's cultural identity. The Prime Minister also encouraged the youth to embrace their cultural roots with pride.
Minister of Culture Pingdwend© Gilbert Ou©draogo highlighted the government's commitment to cultural heritage as a crucial factor in strengthening national unity. He shared impressive statistics, noting that the National Museum of Burkina Faso saw a 160% increase in attendance in 2024, with an additional 44,732 visitors compared to the previous year. Similarly, the Sogossira Sanon communal museum's visitation increased by 21% in 2024, and the Gaoua Museum reported a 177% rise in visitors.
During the event, film director Dani Kouyat© was honored as an Officer of the Order of the Stallion. Additionally, Apolline Traor©, Rasman© Ou©draogo (Raso), Abdoulaye Kabor© (Kayawoto), and Dani Kouyat© were appointed as ambassadors of Burkinabe cultural heritage by the Prime Minister. Absent ambassadors Jonathan Pitroipa and Djamila Diallo will be officially installed at a later date.