Tenkodogo: After 78 days of walking for African happiness, a trio of young Gabonese, initiators of the "March of Happiness 2025," arrived in Tenkodogo, Burkina Faso. Having embarked on their journey on August 1, 2025, from Libreville, Gabon, the group traversed several countries to reach their destination on Saturday morning. Their mission was to rally support for the authorities of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, and to inspire African youth to unite in support of the leaders of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
According to Burkina Information Agency, Manuel Vinga Stemy, a physical education teacher and the initiator of the march, was joined by Panbou Mbadinga Phanuel Gaius, a student, and later by their sister Magnaka Lembe Tatiana. They chose the route from Libreville to Ouagadougou, Bamako, and Niamey to promote a message of unity, solidarity, and pan-African awareness.
Mr. Vinga Stemy emphasized that their journey was more than a sporting challenge; it was a call to awaken African youth to the challenges of sovereignty and responsibility. Upon arrival in Tenkodogo, he stated, "This message is not only addressed to the youth of Gabon, but to all African youth. It is also intended for the people of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger."
Vinga Stemy praised the three AES presidents-Captain Ibrahim Traore, Colonel Assimi Goita, and General Abdourahamane Tiani-as exceptional leaders who represent historic hope for the continent. He urged African youth to actively engage in the continent's transformation, emphasizing the importance of action before it is too late.
The marchers were warmly received by Sami Berenger Pooda, the president of the special delegation of the commune of Tenkodogo. He commended their commitment and the symbolic significance of their gesture, highlighting that it illustrates African brotherhood and reinforces the belief that the continent's unity relies on the solidarity of its youth.
Pooda remarked, "This is a fraternal visit and a march carrying an important message. This message is particularly aimed at Burkinabe youth, but also at all the youth of the Alliance of Sahel States." He further praised the foresight of Burkinabe authorities in promoting a sovereign and responsible Africa, reminding that "Every African must feel free and responsible, regardless of the country they are in, to support the construction of the continent."
For Manuel Vinga Stemy, the "Marche de la Felicite 2025" signifies the desire of a conscious and committed youth to actively contribute to building a united and prosperous Africa. He used a metaphor to illustrate their collective effort: "You are building; you have already laid the bricks. We are coming to help you put on the plaster. Others will come to lay the roof, and still others will bring the door and window frames. Together, we are going to build this new Africa."
The marchers, seeking visas to continue their journey to Mali and Niger, aim to complete their planned route from Libreville to Ouagadougou, then to Bamako and Niamey, which they describe as "the path to African unity." Their journey has garnered admiration and respect in Tenkodogo, serving as a reminder to African youth of their central role in defending the ideals of sovereignty, dignity, and solidarity.
Tomorrow, the marchers will be received by the Dima of Zoungrantenga before proceeding to the capital, Ouagadougou. They have renewed their call for African youth to "rise up as one to support and protect the presidents of the AES and participate in the liberation of the continent."