Dori: The second edition of the Maracana Wardijam tournament, initiated by the Burkina Rempart association, concluded with the 41st Commando Infantry Regiment (RIC) securing a decisive 3-0 victory against the team known as “Iceland.”
According to Burkina Information Agency, this event took place on Sunday, September 28, 2025, amidst a large and enthusiastic crowd, affirming the 41st RIC’s dominance in the tournament.
With their win, the 41st RIC not only took home the trophy but also received a prize of 150,000 FCFA, along with medals and a set of jerseys. The “Iceland” team, as finalists, were awarded 100,000 FCFA, jerseys, and caps. Ajax secured third place, earning 75,000 FCFA, t-shirts, and caps, while The Elders, who finished fourth, received 50,000 FCFA, t-shirts, and caps. The remaining eight teams were each given 15,000 FCFA, t-shirts, and caps as a token of appreciation for their participation and commitment.
Under the theme “Strengthening social cohesion between defense and security forces (FDS) and civilian populations for lasting peace in the Liptako region,” the tournament brought together 12 teams from Dori. Hama Maga, the secretary general of Burkina Rempart and promoter of the competition, emphasized the initiative’s aim to enhance relationships between the FDS and local communities. He expressed gratitude towards the teams, administrative authorities, and the local population for their support.
Aboubakar Souman, representing the event’s sponsor, commended the organization and quality of the tournament, pledging continued support for future editions. Similarly, Abdoul Karim Zongo, the Governor of the Sahel region, lauded the initiative and underlined the role of sport in fostering resilience and mobilization amidst security challenges. He highlighted the tournament’s contribution to strengthening ties between the army and the nation to address these challenges collaboratively.
By bringing defense and security forces together with civilian populations through football, the Maracana Wardijam tournament has effectively used sport as a tool for social cohesion and peace. The 41st RIC emerged victorious, but the true achievement was the spirit of unity and solidarity fostered in Dori.