Koudougou: Since July 20, the city of Koudougou has been living to the rhythm of a transformative event for Burkinabe youth: 'Do It With Africa 2025.' This camp, with its resolutely patriotic feel, brings together 100 young people aged 15 to 22 from the municipalities of Saaba, Ouagadougou, and Koudougou.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the camp is jointly organized by the NGOs ASMADE and D©fi Belgique Afrique (DBA) and features intercultural exchanges and civic engagement aiming to equip the new generation to face the pressing challenges facing Burkina Faso.
The coordinator of the NGO ASMADE and chief organizer of "Do It With Africa", Jean Urbain Kombasser©, stated that the initiative aims to mobilize young people to become a driving force in the face of growing insecurity, the environmental crisis, endemic unemployment, and the lack of spaces for civic expression.
The project aligns with the Global Citizenship and Solidarity Education (ECMS) program, under the evocative theme: "Youth and civic engagement for a green, clean and united Burkina Faso", encouraging participants with the slogan: "Acting together today to build the Burkina Faso of tomorrow!"
Participants engage in a rich program designed to be educational and participatory. Activities include reforestation projects, planting trees, sanitation operations, collecting plastic bags, and cleaning gutters, aiming to instill beneficial mentalities for both the youth and their communities.
July 25 was notable for a caravan and march for climate and peace, followed by an aerobics session, highlighting the importance of collective action.
Beyond environmental interventions, the camp offers training on citizenship, peace, and the environment, helping participants develop critical awareness and effective tools for action.
The camp fosters dialogue and mutual understanding through cultural evenings and forum theaters, opening debates on societal issues. Mr. Kombasser© emphasized the positive impact of the public speaking debate on July 25, which stimulated participants' reflection and expression.
Sporting challenges, including football matches, are organized to strengthen social cohesion and develop leadership. Village immersions allow young people to discover local realities and acclimate to different environments.
Visits to administrative, municipal, customary, and religious authorities facilitate dialogue and understanding of local dynamics.
In essence, "Do It With Africa 2025" uses a participatory approach to develop leadership, critical thinking, and collective action among young people, equipping them to become key players in a more resilient, united, and sustainable Burkina Faso.
As the event concludes with the closing ceremony on July 31, organizers are confident that "Do It With Africa 2025" will have a profound and lasting impact on these 100 young people, preparing them to actively build a better future for their nation.
