Ouagadougou: As part of the activities marking the 72 hours dedicated to Nelson Mandela, the Leo Prison (MACL) organized the 8th edition of the Director’s Cup on Thursday, July 17, 2025. The event aims to promote social cohesion between inmates, prison and justice administration staff, and the general public through sports and other recreational activities.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the highlight of the day was the final of the football tournament, which pitted Talentus against Ajax. After a balanced and competitive match, Talentus won on penalties with a score of 2 goals to 1.

For the director of the MACL, Inspector Mouri Sabo, these days are much more than just a festive occasion: “The 72 Nelson Mandela Hours are an annual opportunity to allow prisoners to reconnect with humanity, to feel that they are not abandoned. It is a process of resilience, solidarity, but also hope for their reintegration,” said Mr. Sabo.

Mr. Sabo recalled that this initiative is in line with the values of peace, justice, tolerance, and living together embodied by Nelson Mandela, a global figure in the fight for human dignity.

The sponsor of the ceremony, Isma«l Sawadogo, president of the Youth Council for the Development of the Sahel (CJ.DS), praised the organization of the event and the symbolic significance of this commemoration. “This celebration not only recalls Nelson Mandela’s historic struggle, but also echoes the patriotic spirit of Burkina Faso today, engaged in a social revolution for justice, peace and national cohesion,” he said.

He also stressed the importance of the role played by the Defense and Security Forces (FDS), the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP) and youth in this collective dynamic of national reconstruction.

In addition to the football competition, several other activities were organized for the benefit of the MACL residents, including board games, p©tanque tournaments, a free medical consultation and a guided tour of the establishment. Through this initiative, the MACL management intends to strengthen the social fabric in prisons, with a view to human dignity, respect for rights and preparation for reintegration.