Abidjan came alive last Friday with the second edition of the O’Baré cultural festival, a vibrant celebration of social cohesion, creativity, and youth talent.
This year’s theme, “Inter-ethnic alliances, a guarantee of social cohesion and peace: The case of the Dan people and that of Hambol,” highlighted the importance of cross-cultural solidarity in Côte d’Ivoire’s diverse society.
Ms. Fidèle Lagnon, the festival’s general coordinator, explained the significance of the theme in the context of an election year.
“Inter-ethnic alliances aim to build bridges of unity beyond our differences,” she said. “In Côte d’Ivoire, there are allied peoples who do not know each other or are unaware of the extent of their alliances. This festival helps them understand the meaning of these fraternal ties and strengthens peace.”
The evening event, held at a hotel on the banks of the Ebrié Lagoon, brought together Dan community leaders from the west and executives from the Hambol Region in north-central Ivory Coast.
Guests were treated to traditional dances, identity performances, and rhythms from both regions. For Mr. Sévérin Guibessongui, Vice-Governor of the Bandama Valley, culture serves as a unifying force.
“Culture is the vehicle of our identity, the beauty of our experience, our past and our future. It is the cement and the foundation that unites our people,” he said.
The festival also celebrated emerging talent. Competitions for dance and rap troupes, held in Katiola on August 20, culminated in an award ceremony in Abidjan on August 22.
Among the honorees, the O’Baré Revelation Award went to “Madness L’enfant béni de Dieu,” while JJ Rold received Best Artist, and “Vétéran LI Poutine” was named Best Rap Artist.
Other winners included “La Team Génération Swag” for best dance troupe and Coulibaly Anva for Tagbana fashion weaving.
Top prizes included cash awards and plots of land, with Estelle Thio Mignatcho receiving the premier O’Baré prize and JJ Rold obtaining a 500-square-meter plot near Abidjan.
The festival also recognised academic achievements, awarding top students in CEPE, BEPC, and BAC exams.
Organized by Poro Production with a total endowment exceeding 12 million FCFA, O’Baré aims to provide visibility for young talents while strengthening inter-ethnic dialogue.
JJ Rold, reflecting on his award, said, “This is the culmination of a long-term effort. In my songs, I talk about union, God, society, and life.
I now seek a producer and manager to help me reach the top of my career.”
With innovations such as categorized trophies and historical restitution, this edition particularly celebrated the longstanding alliance between the Dan and Hambol peoples, reinforcing unity through culture and creativity.
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