Bobo-Dioulasso: Commemorative activities marking the 20th anniversary of the death of General Aboubacar Sangoul© Lamizana concluded on Sunday, May 11, 2025, in Bobo-Dioulasso. The closing ceremony featured the creation of the Youth Values Movement (MJVAL), dedicated to promoting the ideals of the former head of state.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the event was organized under the patronage of Mariam Lamizana and included several highlights such as artistic performances and the presentation of excellence awards to winners of a slam competition. The ceremony culminated with the official launch of the MJVAL, which aims to instill in Burkinabe youth values such as discipline, integrity, commitment, respect, resilience, and fighting spirit.

The president of the organizing committee, Nouhoun Coulibaly, emphasized the movement’s goal to encourage young people to adopt new behaviors aligned with patriotic and civic principles. “We hope this movement will mobilize young people around strong values and encourage their civic participation,” he stated, expressing satisfaction with the smooth conduct of the activities.

Mariam Lamizana, the event’s patron, also expressed her satisfaction with the commemoration’s outcome. She noted that students at the high school named after General Lamizana now better understand the man and the values he embodied. “Reading the works presented demonstrates a real commitment to bringing the General’s legacy to life through concrete actions,” she remarked, reiterating her commitment to supporting young people in this initiative.

For the record, General Aboubacar Sangoul© Lamizana, former President of the Republic of Upper Volta (now Burkina Faso), died in 2005. His career continues to inspire several generations through educational and civic initiatives.