Ouahigouya: The Minister of Youth of the Kingdom of Yatenga, Rassam Naaba Yemde, was buried on Monday, May 4 in Ouahigouya after a funeral mass during which a final tribute was paid to the illustrious deceased, AIB observed. The church of Our Lady of Deliverance in Ouahigouya hosted the funeral service for Rassam Naaba Yemde. Administrative, traditional, and religious authorities, members of the Yatenga royal family, and residents of Naaba Kango's city were present to pay their respects to the deceased.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the absolution mass was celebrated by Father Etienne Wendzoodo Ouedraogo, Father Alexandre Sawadogo, diocesan chaplain of Catholic customary chiefs, assisted by several priests of the parish in the absence of the Bishop of the Diocese of Ouahigouya, Mgr Justin Kientega, on mission to the Holy See in Rome. Following the ritual, several messages of tribute, including one from Bishop Justin Kientega of the Diocese of Ouahigouya, were read after prayers were offered to implore God's mercy for the repose of the deceased's soul. Testimonies and tributes provided a deeper understanding of the man mourned by the youth and the Kingdom of Yatenga.
Alexandre Ouedraogo was officially enthroned in 2011 by His Majesty Naaba Kiiba, King of Yatenga. He was granted the title of Rassam Naaba, a high customary distinction representing the equivalent of a Minister of Youth within the royal court of Yatenga. Testimonies reveal that the deceased fully embraced his role as a unifier of youth and the community through his ability to embody traditional values. His crucial role as a mediator in community conflicts, demonstrated by his openness to contemporary realities, was also highlighted. Rassam Naaba Yemde's contribution to the Kingdom's customary ceremonies and rites, and his promotion of social cohesion and harmonious living, were among the many tributes highly praised.
Having passed away on April 29, 2026, Yatenga has lost a son devoted to many causes. An exceptional man dedicated to serving others, a defender of values, he remains a guiding light throughout his life. Rassam Naaba Yemde leaves behind an immense legacy. A Knight of the Order of Merit, he was honored with several certificates of recognition from various local and national organizations. Rassam Naaba leaves behind a large family of fourteen children, eight of whom have passed away, thirty-two grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. May his soul rest in peace.