Burkina Faso Prime Minister Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouedraogo paid tribute on Wednesday to world triple jump champion Hugues Fabrice Zango, who officially announced the end of his illustrious 14-year sporting career.
The Prime Minister praised the athlete’s exceptional achievements during a meeting at which Zango, accompanied by Sports Minister Roland Somda, confirmed his decision to retire from high-level competition.
“At some point, we no longer belong to ourselves; we belong to the people, and therefore to the Burkinabe state,” Zango said after the audience, reflecting on his career.
The Head of Government acknowledged the decision, hailing Zango’s “remarkable” career and emphasizing that the athlete has “proudly raised the Burkina Faso flag on the greatest international sporting events.” Ouedraogo encouraged the champion to now use his vast experience to serve the nation’s youth.
Zango, 32, retires with one of the most decorated résumés in Burkinabe history. His career boasts six world medals, including two world championship titles and an Olympic bronze medal won at the Tokyo Games in 2021. He is also a three-time African champion and a two-time winner of both the Francophone Games and the African Games.
Beyond the track, Zango is a scholar, having earned a PhD in electrical engineering in 2023. He now intends to dedicate himself to sharing his knowledge and promoting development through his foundation.
“In the history of world athletics, there has never been a doctor and world champion. This is a source of pride for our country,” Zango noted.
His announcement marks the end of an era for Burkinabe sport and signals the entry of one of its most illustrious representatives into a new phase of commitment to national development and youth mentorship.
HO/ac/fss/abj/APA