CERAV questions the future of performing arts in the era of AI at SNC 2026
via Lefaso.net4 min read
Ouafa Belgacem, a specialist in resource mobilization for cultural and creative industries, stated that artists are not obligated to think like entrepreneurs, emphasizing that not all creative projects are meant to be bankable. She highlighted the need to preserve creative freedom and cited examples from Tunisia where creative startups collaborated with traditional businesses. Boukary Ouédraogo, an expert in cultural and creative industries, presented artificial intelligence as a catalyst for transformation, not a rival, enhancing creativity and market access. He noted AI's role in all stages of creation, from ideation to distribution, and its ability to reduce production times and diversify content formats. Ouédraogo also identified two major challenges: copyright issues, as AI systems often use pre-existing content without explicit consent, and cultural standardization, given that AI databases are predominantly Western. He recommended that African countries contribute their data to AI to ensure culturally relevant solutions and preserve cultural sovereignty. Recommendations included fiscal policies for AI tools adapted to African cultures, creation of cultural tech labs, and strengthening creators' AI skills. Dr. Mamadou Bayala of Daniel Ouezzin Coulibaly University discussed the ethical implications of AI, describing it as a "moral amplifier" that intensifies existing ethical dilemmas. He called for ethical frameworks, regulatory mechanisms, and a digital responsibility et
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A communication caravan, launched on Saturday, April 18, 2026, in Dédougou, Bankui region, and continuing in the Nakambé region, arrived in Tenkodogo on Monday, April 27, 2026. This initiative, led by the Consultation Circle of NGOs and Associations Active in Basic Education CCEB-BF in collaboration with local authorities, aims to promote girls' schooling and retention. A public conference was held at the general education college in Sector No. 2 of Tenkodogo on the theme: "Menstrual health and hygiene in schools: breaking taboos, ensuring dignity to promote retention and academic success." Innocent Sissao, technical support officer at the Directorate General of Specific Support and a founding member of several educational frameworks, led the discussion. He highlighted the pervasive societal taboo surrounding menstruation, even within families, citing an anecdote where his own daughter was uncomfortable discussing the topic with him. Mr. Sissao discussed with students the significant challenges related to menstrual management in schools. These include disruptions to classes, discomfort experienced by girls, a lack of gender-specific latrines, insufficient water supply in schools, and teasing from peers. These issues lead to repeated absences, school dropout, frustration, and a lack of self-confidence among girls. He emphasized that the negative impact extends beyond families, affecting national development through girls' educational attrition and increased vulnerability. Mr.
The Association of Burkinabe in Nebraska ABN elected a new leadership body on Sunday, April 19, 2026, during a general assembly. The gathering aimed to strengthen fraternal and solidarity ties among compatriots and discuss the situation in Burkina Faso. Simon Marco Kaboré was elected president for a two-year term, supported by Moussa Tiemtoré as vice-president and Ibrahim Gansonré as secretary general. The new 18-member executive committee plans to reinforce unity, fraternity, and solidarity within the Burkinabe diaspora in Nebraska, promote members' socio-economic and cultural development, and foster relations between Burkinabe and other communities. The team also intends to promote Burkinabe culture and traditions in Nebraska, support Burkinabe businesses in the state, and contribute to peace efforts and encourage investments in Burkina Faso. Additionally, the new leadership will work to consolidate the achievements of previous committees to strengthen cohesion and generate new initiatives for the ABN's objectives during its 2026-2028 mandate.
Must ReadMali's Prime Minister, Major General Abdoulaye Maïga, declared that the fight for the nation's dignity and honor is non-negotiable and will continue until terrorism is eradicated and a "Mali Kura" is built. This statement followed coordinated attacks on April 25, 2026, which led to a national mourning period for General Sadio Camara and other victims. The Prime Minister condemned these attacks as attempts to instill fear, weaken national cohesion, and destabilize state institutions, but asserted that these efforts failed due to the population's resilience and increased collective engagement. He emphasized the need to learn from the April 25 incidents, reinforce successful strategies, and implement necessary corrections for improved security. Prime Minister Maïga praised the Malian Armed Forces for their professional response, which neutralized numerous assailants across the country. He also highlighted General Sadio Camara's spirit of defending the homeland and called for national unity, vigilance, and continued efforts to achieve total eradication of terrorism and build a stable and sovereign Mali.
Nutritionist Issa Nacanabo explains that drastic diets, also known as draconian diets, involve a sudden and excessive reduction in caloric intake by eliminating certain food groups. When calories are drastically reduced, the body initially uses carbohydrate reserves, then fat, and finally protein. In drastic diets, the body often lacks carbohydrates, leading it to conserve fat and utilize protein. This results in rapid weight loss, which is primarily due to the loss of water and muscle, not fat. Nacanabo warns that this often leads to a "yo-yo effect," where individuals regain more weight than they lost, as the body stores nutrients in anticipation of future restrictions. Long-term effects of drastic diets include chronic fatigue, hormonal imbalances, bulimia, nutritional deficiencies iron, B12, D, calcium, magnesium, hair loss, cardiovascular risks, food obsession, and loss of self-confidence. For women, menstrual disorders can also occur. These diets can also trigger eating disorders, such as compulsive eating and uncontrolled cravings, because the brain resists deprivation. For sustainable weight loss, Nacanabo recommends a healthy and balanced eating strategy, including sufficient protein and fiber, combined with rigorous physical activity and adequate sleep. These habits should be integrated into one's lifestyle rather than adopted temporarily. He emphasizes that exercise alone is insufficient for weight loss, and a healthy rate of weight loss is 2 to 4 kilograms per mon