The Porlalha Festival, held today in Kouto, has established itself as a major cultural event, highlighting local and African traditions, heritage, and the economic potential of culture.

The event was marked by the distinguished presence of the Minister of Employment, Social Protection, and Vocational Training, Maître Adama Kamara, whose commitment to structuring cultural professions and professionalizing talent is a key focus of government action.

As the founder of the Odienné Philharmonic Orchestra, Minister Adama Kamara participated in the festival alongside this emblematic musical ensemble, whose performance strongly demonstrated culture’s ability to generate skilled jobs, enhance artistic skills, and create sustainable professional training paths.

The ceremony also welcomed Madame Françoise Remarck, Minister of Culture and Francophonie; Mr. Souleymane Diarrassouba, Minister of Planning and Development; Mr. Ibrahim Kalil Konaté, Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Handicrafts; and Mr. Siandou Fofana, Minister of Tourism and Leisure, reflecting a government-wide synergy around culture as a lever for economic and social development.

Initiated by Koné Dossongui, a native of the region and an advocate for promoting Kouto’s cultural identity, the Porlalha Festival also hosted delegations from several countries, strengthening its international reach and role in promoting the cultural and creative industries.

Through this festival, culture is showcased as a true source of jobs and professional training, particularly in music, crafts, cultural tourism, and heritage professions, perfectly aligned with the missions of the Ministry of Employment, Social Protection, and Vocational Training.

At Kouto, culture is more than ever a driver of development, professionalization, and the creation of sustainable employment.