Burkinabe Prime Minister urges AES chancellors to embrace distinct identity and national values
Burkinabe Prime Minister Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo met with the general secretaries of the Grand Chancellors from the Sahel States Confederation AES countries, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, in Ouagadougou on September 2, 2026. This meeting followed their first technical gathering in the Burkinabe capital, where discussions focused on establishing a common framework for recognizing merit within the confederal space. Prime Minister Ouédraogo emphasized the importance of strengthening the transmission of national values to youth and embedding a merit recognition system within the peoples' identities. He called for reforms to existing chancery practices, which he noted are largely influenced by colonial heritage. The Prime Minister urged the chancellors to incorporate historical references, cultural identities, and the unique values of the Confederation's peoples into their systems. He stated, "Let us not be afraid to be different. In our speeches and symbols, we must celebrate our identity." He encouraged them to draw from the traditions and socio-cultural realities of the three nations to redefine forms and symbols of recognition. Ouédraogo also advised the Grand Chancellors to engage in more active communication, particularly with the youth, to promote national symbols and values, fostering patriotism and respect. Brigadier General Pingrenoma Zagré, retired Grand Chancellor of Burkinabe Orders, who led the delegation, indicated that the meeting's conclusions would define the va
