Away from classrooms, Burkina Faso’s ‘grins de thé’ are where the hottest debates take place. Young minds untangle political knots, defy language edicts and dream of a bolder future for their nation — over cups of tea.
On the vibrant streets of Dassasgho, a popular neighborhood in Burkina Faso’s capital Ouagadougou, a unique phenomenon thrives — the so-called Grin de thé, a French phrase that describes a gathering of a group of friends.
The Grin de thé in Dassasgho serves as platform for university students and other young people to engage in lively debates, share jokes — and even question societal decisions and policies.
“There are no restrictions, there are no constraints, there are no regulations,” Alassane Traore, one of the young students participating in the day’s discussions, told DW.
“Also, these are spaces where no subject is taboo, no topic is too sensitive to be broached,” Traore said.
“I think that there is already this ease, there is already the environment itself, which is conducive to everyone being able to express themselves freely.”
The language debate
Those gathered discuss the controversial relegation of French to the status of a mere working language by Burkinabe military authorities last month.
“Sixty years after independence, I think it was more than necessary for us to rebuild our identity because language is a reflection of our identity,” said Toure, a local student. “I don’t know what you’re thinking…”
Toure’s words spark dissent.
“I don’t agree with you because, quite simply, we are in a context where we shouldn’t make that decision,” Birba, another student, said.
Kobore comes in strongly, to defend Toure’s position arguing that the situation was one of urgency.
“What exactly are you saying — it’s time?” he asked.
Source: DW
