Sissili: The Center for Democratic Governance (CGD) organized a series of awareness-raising and advocacy activities in Leo on April 10 and 11, 2026. Between discussions on disinformation and direct dialogue with local authorities, young people and women from the Sissili region were encouraged to become key players in local development and ambassadors of civic responsibility.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the first part of this civic engagement took place at the Leo Youth and Culture Center. Over a tea and discussion, participants analyzed the mechanisms of disinformation, misinformation, and misinformation. The objective was clear: to equip the public with the tools to identify fake news and understand the devastating consequences of its spread in a sensitive security context.

Beyond media awareness, young people and women formulated concrete recommendations for the development of the municipality, including subsidizing fertilizers for agricultural and livestock production, involving youth through creative projects, and establishing a framework for monthly meetings. For the Secretary General of the CGD, Simon Pierre Doamba, unity of action is paramount. "We don't have to like each other, but we do have to work together," he emphasized.

The second session, held on April 11 at the Sissili hostel, facilitated direct dialogue between socio-professional organizations and local authorities. The President of the Special Delegation (PDS) of Leo, Kassoum Koalaga, welcomed this forum. "This dialogue is essential. It allows us to highlight our actions while informing the various stakeholders. I hope everyone leaves with concrete information to facilitate their professional integration," he stated, praising the renewed partnership with the CGD.

The Acting Provincial Director of Social Action, Pascal Bationo, presented a comprehensive guide to entrepreneurship. He emphasized that mastering a trade is the foundation of any project. He encouraged the audience to invest in promising sectors such as agri-food processing (like shea butter, lebsoumbala) and digital services.

"Entrepreneurship allows you to avoid the pitfalls of salaried employment. Today's major economic players are those who took risks and persevered despite setbacks," he advised, while also advocating for collective organization through cooperatives to overcome a lack of financial resources.

Regarding digital security and responsibility, the Central Police Commissioner of Leo, Idrissa Sawadogo, warned against the malicious use of social media, describing it as "weapons of destabilization." Quoting Nelson Mandela, he emphasized that education must include the responsible use of digital technology.

Then, he drew a close link between digital technology and road safety, deploring the inattention caused by phone use while driving. "Starting today, firm instructions have been given to strengthen traffic controls in the city," he warned, calling on every young person to be the change they wish to see.

Finally, the Provincial Director in charge of Agriculture, Lassane Sawadogo, outlined the opportunities in the agricultural, livestock, and fisheries sectors. While presenting the projects and NGOs ready to support project leaders, he encouraged participants to address the challenges related to access to water and financing in order to transform local potential into real wealth.

This double day of discussions concluded on a note of hope, with participants committing to translate these lessons into concrete actions for the stability and prosperity of the Sissili province.