Sissili: The "Yazur©" cluster in L©o organized the Day of the African Child (DAC) on Wednesday, July 15, 2026. Presided over by the High Commissioner of the Sissili Province, T©wind© Isaac Sia, this commemoration brought together children from 13 child and youth development centers (CDEJ) from four communes in the Sissili and Ziro Provinces.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the turnout was impressive in L©o for this celebration, which brought together children from the communes of L©o, Boura, and To (in the Sissili region), as well as those from the neighboring commune of Sapouy (in the Ziro region). Colorful parades, modern dance performances, and skits presented by residents of the various centers punctuated this commemorative day.
In his opening address, the High Commissioner of Sissili Province, T©wind© Isaac Sia, emphasized the historical and symbolic significance of the day. "The Day of the African Child, celebrated annually on June 16, is a time for reflection and commitment to children's rights. It reminds us that every child, wherever they live, deserves to grow up in a protective, healthy, and nurturing environment."
Addressing the main theme of this year's event, "Equitable Access to Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene: A Fundamental Right for Every Child," the provincial authority emphasized that access to these basic services is not a privilege but a fundamental right, essential for preserving children's health and guaranteeing their dignity. While commending the Burkinabe government's ongoing efforts, he expressed his deep gratitude to Compassion International Burkina Faso and its partner churches for their concrete achievements on the ground.
The crucial role of Compassion International and local churches was also highlighted by the partnership facilitator, Pastor Eli Zangr©. Present in Sissili since 2012, the organization now supports more than 2,635 children through two clusters, "Le Rocher" and "Yazur©," each with 14 partner churches.
'To address this year's theme in a concrete way, Compassion International is actively collaborating with churches to build appropriate infrastructure,' said Pastor Eli Zangr©, mentioning in particular the construction of 13 latrines and 8 boreholes at partner churches. He added, however, that 'ensuring their proper maintenance so that they benefit children in the long term' remains a major challenge to be met collectively.
This observation was shared by the president of the Leaders, Pastor Phil©mon Nignan. While honoring the memory of the children of Soweto in 1976 who braved oppression for a just education, he emphasized the vital importance of water, quoting Scripture: 'You shall be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail' (Isaiah 58:11). 'Providing water to children is giving them life, hope, and a future.' Pastor Nignan was pleased to see 13 centers equipped with latrines and 9 of them with boreholes, while advocating for full coverage of the remaining sites.
The day was enriched by major thematic communications. The Provincial Director of Agriculture, Water and Animal and Fisheries Resources (DPAERAH) of Sissili, Zakaria Sawadogo, led an interactive presentation on the importance of sustainable and responsible water management and the risks associated with poor water quality, providing valuable advice to the children.
On the civic front, Nad¨ge Zongo, representing the Provincial Director of Family and Solidarity, spoke with participants about the secondary theme "The duty of the child towards their parents and their community." She emphasized core values such as respect for elders, patriotism, and environmental protection.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, young Mika«l Nama made a plea to adults. 'We ask you to help us grow up in a clean environment. Every child must have access to drinking water and a pleasant living environment. A happy child today will be a responsible citizen tomorrow, for a prosperous Burkina Faso,' he declared.
Alongside these discussions, the final of the Yazura cluster children's cup added a festive touch to the event. The winning teams received substantial prizes, including trophies, sets of jerseys, balls, certificates of participation, and cash prizes ranging from 15,000 to 50,000 CFA francs, thus crowning a celebration focused on the holistic development of children in the Sissili and Ziro regions.