Sissili: The municipality of Silly successfully celebrated National Tree Day this Saturday, June 20, 2026. Chaired by the President of the Special Delegation (PDS), Christophe Bonkoungou, this edition was marked by citizen mobilization and a symbolic alliance between nature protection and local social life.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the event began in an original way, right after the Ziba couple's wedding celebration. To officially launch the reforestation campaign, the Prefect and President of the Special Delegation of Silly, accompanied by his staff and the newlyweds, planted the very first sapling.

In his address, Christophe Bonkoungou, the Democratic and Socialist Party (PDS) representative for Silly, first highlighted the government's environmental policy. He then emphasized the vital economic importance of this initiative for his constituency. "This tree planting is a springboard for Burkina Faso's economic development. Silly is a prime example, as its greatest resources are fundamentally based on firewood and charcoal," explained the PDS.

Faced with a shortage of butane gas, the local authority warned of the risks of desertification. 'If we don't plant trees and spend our time cutting them down even when necessary, imagine for a moment what our district would look like: a desert. That's why we must act, whatever it takes, by aligning ourselves with this grand vision of the government for our own good.' In conclusion, Comrade Bonkoungou urged each participant to demonstrate patriotism and civic responsibility by planting at least one tree at home, beyond the professional sphere, and by caring for it.

For his part, Bazouna Bazi©, the representative of the water and forestry service in Silly, praised the relevance of this day in light of the massive deforestation the country is experiencing. He emphasized the many benefits of forest resources. "Trees are of inestimable value, often overlooked. They heal us with their leaves, bark, and roots; they nourish us with their fruit; they feed our animals with their leaves; and they allow us to make fire with their wood or charcoal," the forester reminded everyone.

Bazouna Bazi© also raised the alarm about the potential extinction of certain varieties. "If we are not careful, we risk losing some tree species that are vital to our health." He therefore deemed it imperative not only to plant and protect trees, but also to reproduce endangered species.

Following the planting, which was carried out with great enthusiasm, the President of the Special Delegation congratulated and thanked the participants for the success of the activity. He nevertheless urged them to ensure rigorous monitoring of the young plants to guarantee the sustainability of the initiative, before inviting them to join him again next year for the 9th edition.