Ouahigouya: The Governor of the Yaadga Region, Thomas Yampa, chaired a significant signing ceremony where 15 villages, along with the communes of Tangaye and Zogor©, officially joined the Ouahigouya commitments. This initiative, termed the "Yatenga Commitments," aims to foster peace and social cohesion among communities in the region.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the agreement represents a crucial step toward enhancing harmonious coexistence in the area, with the ceremony taking place on July 22, 2025, in Ouahigouya. Governor Thomas Yampa commended the approach, highlighting its role in promoting sustainable peace and coexistence. He acknowledged the contributions of the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue and the High Commissioner of Yatenga, Tass©r© Nacoulma, in this achievement.
The initiative saw inclusive participation from various stakeholders, including administrative, customary, religious authorities, defense and security forces, and representatives from the involved village communities. Moussa Tall, the head of the CDH office in Burkina Faso, noted that the first set of commitments was signed on July 19, 2024, in Ouahigouya, alongside the establishment of a monitoring committee to oversee their implementation.
Following an evaluation phase, the initiative witnessed a growing interest from several communities eager to join. Boukari Barry, chairman of the monitoring committee, highlighted the progress made over the past year, such as courtesy visits, monthly meetings, collective prayers, and broader gatherings that have effectively spread the commitment's ideals among the population. These efforts have contributed to a calmer social atmosphere in Ouahigouya, facilitating the new adhesion.
Governor Thomas Yampa also observed positive changes, with a more favorable social climate for everyday activities. He expressed hope that these commitments would serve as a model throughout the Yadga region, encouraging communities to resolve cohabitation challenges.
He further emphasized the importance of dispute management mechanisms, which help in reducing tensions. The commitments, he noted, do not eliminate misunderstandings but provide a framework for addressing issues through the monitoring committee. These commitments mark a new beginning for the region, with the support of traditional, religious, and administrative authorities, as well as defense and security forces involved in the entire process.
The monitoring committee remains dedicated to facilitating the implementation of Yatenga's commitments, bolstered by the involvement of new members.