Getting a glimpse of Burkinabe culture during WA16

OUAGADOUGOU, Burkina Faso -- Just before the culminating command post exercise of Western Accord 16, participants enjoyed a day of Burkina Faso culture around Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, May 8.

Servicemembers of the U.S. military, West Africa partners and European countries represented at the combined, joint exercise toured The Granite Sculptures of Laongo, shopped for souvenirs at a local craft market and dined at hotel Ouaga 2000.

"Yesterday's cultural day was very nice and impressive," said Sierra Leone Army logistician Maj. Mariatu Kamare. "There is still room for people to meet, gather and have some social activities. It was really fun. I enjoyed it."

The dinner at Ouaga 2000, which featured Burkinabe folk dancers, musicians and a poetry reading, allowed participants to dress in their nation's traditional garb and connect with each other via conga line.

"I enjoyed watching everyone and all the cultures get together on the dance floor," said Spc. Nathaniel Cox, a linguist with Company D, 9th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division. "It was nice to see everyone let loose and relax and be comfortable with each other. I thought it was really cool."

"We loved the music," Kamare said. "I wish I could have gotten a copy of it to take to my country."

Western Accord 16 is a key element in a broader series of military-to-military activities to demonstrate the strong partnership between regional African partners, the U.S., and all of the participating militaries. It is the first of four U.S. Army Africa accord series exercises scheduled this summer.