Ouagadougou: The organizing committee of the "WAABO" festival announced on Thursday the commencement of its second edition from January 30 to February 1, 2026, at the National Museum of Ouagadougou, under the theme "Burkina Iwili, Yiki, Ummah!" and with several new features.

According to Burkina Information Agency, this edition will span three days, unlike the inaugural event which lasted two days. The festival will introduce innovations such as an opening show, a culinary competition, and a virtual immersion in tourist sites in Burkina Faso. Yacine Zetiyenga, president of the organizing committee, emphasized these enhancements during the announcement.

The festival is organized under the patronage of the Minister of Communication, Culture, Arts, and Tourism, Pingdwende Gilbert Ouedraogo. Abdoul Aziz Tiemtore, head of Pro Communication and promoter of the festival, noted that the event will feature participation from various artists, including renowned performers like Smarty and Kayawoto.

The festival will be divided into four distinct spaces: WAABO PLACE, the central hub for artistic activities; WAABO REM, focusing on young talents and exhibitors; WAABO ACADEMY, dedicated to intellectual discourse and training; and WAABO KAMBA, an area for early learning.

Promoters of the "WAABO" festival describe it as a cultural event aimed at promoting Burkinabe heritage and showcasing the creativity of the youth. It seeks to bolster cultural pride and foster a sense of belonging, while also encouraging the active participation of young people in the development and promotion of national heritage.