Ouagadougou: The president of the Special Delegation (PDS) of the commune of Tenkodogo, Comrade Sami Brenger Poda, addressed the young members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community on Friday, urging them to imbue their daily lives with the values of love for neighbors and solidarity. This call was made at the inauguration of the 23rd edition of the National Ijtema, an annual conference themed "Love of neighbor beyond differences."
According to Burkina Information Agency, the opening ceremony of this event took place at the National Institute for the Training of Education Personnel (INFPE) in Tenkodogo, drawing participants from various regions of Burkina Faso and neighboring countries. During the event, PDS President Poda emphasized the importance of maintaining peace, fraternity, and social cohesion. He encouraged attendees to embrace true Islam by loving their neighbors and respecting differences, highlighting the need for solidarity in both challenging and joyful times to ensure a peaceful future for Burkina Faso.
The ceremony included a national flag-raising event, a cross-country race from INFPE to Place de la Nation, and an aerobics session with the Defense and Security Forces (FDS). According to Comrade Ahmed Rachid Barro, president of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth of Burkina Faso, the national Ijtema serves as a platform for reunions and strengthening ties among the youth of the community. The theme of the conference aims to foster peace and social cohesion by engaging various segments of Burkinabe society.
Comrade Aboubacar Fofana, chairman of the organizing committee, noted that the flag-raising symbolized the community's attachment to their homeland. The event will feature sporting competitions, Quran recitation and memorization tests, prepared speech contests, and a blood drive before concluding on Sunday, September 13. Comrade Abdramane Poda, the second vice-president of Ahmadiyya Youth, highlighted that the chosen theme reflects the ongoing challenges of peace and security, urging young people to promote tolerance and coexistence.
Mr. Abdou Latif Angbem, representing the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth of Togo, commended the organization of the event. Over the course of three days, the national Ijtema will unite young people in Tenkodogo, focusing on faith, citizenship, and brotherhood.