Burkina Faso/Territorial reconquest: FESPACO 2025 laureate’s gesture of encouragement and support to combatants
The 29th edition of the Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou (FESPACO 2025) unfolded in an atmosphere of celebration and unity, made possible by the collective efforts of the Burkinabe people and the proactive engagement of security authorities.
This prestigious event honored numerous filmmakers for their outstanding contributions to cinema, with the top award—the Étalon d’Or de Yennenga—going to Burkinabe director Dani Kouyaté for his remarkable film, Katanga, la danse des scorpions.
In a deeply symbolic and patriotic gesture, Dani Kouyané dedicated his award to the brave combat forces tirelessly fighting to reclaim national territory and eradicate terrorism, as well as to the fallen soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Receiving the prize from President Ibrahim Traoré, he paid tribute to their courage and unwavering commitment to the nation’s security.
It is thanks to the perseverance and resilience of these forces that Burkina Faso is steadily regaining stability, allowing major national and international events to take place once again.
For the FESPACO 2025 laureate, the battle against terrorism, though challenging, is one that the Burkinabe people will ultimately win.
The professionalism and dedication demonstrated by the Defense and Security Forces (FDS) and the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP) stand as undeniable proof of the country’s collective determination to restore peace and stability.
Many see Kouyaté’s gesture as a powerful message of encouragement, meant to uplift and inspire those on the front lines.
It serves as a reminder that the fight against insurgency is not just a military effort but a national cause—one that demands unity, resilience, and the unwavering spirit of a people determined to protect their homeland.
Maurice K. ZONGO
