The 20th edition of the Sobahya Festival, held annually in August in Katsepy, in the rural commune of the same name in the Mitsinjo district, has concluded. Once again, the event attracted a massive crowd.
For three days, from last Friday to Sunday, the public discovered and appreciated the value and importance of the Sakalava Marambitsy culture. The event aims to promote this culture, with this year’s theme focusing on “Youth, heirs of culture, builders of the future.”
The festival was highlighted by the decoration of its creator and promoter, Bachir Adehame Soudjay, the founder of this major cultural event. A medal was awarded to the former senator of Madagascar and historian for his commitment to preserving cultural heritage.
He initiated and led the Sobahya Festival to celebrate the Sobahya, a traditional fabric of great nobility and deep historical value linked to the Sakalava sovereigns. He works actively for the transmission of traditions and the preservation of local identities, particularly the culture of the Sakalava Marambitsy.
The historian has demonstrated his long-standing commitment to safeguarding and promoting the Sakalava cultural heritage in the Boeny region. He currently represents the Grand Chancellery of Madagascar in the Mahajanga province.
“We express our deep gratitude to Bachir Adehame Soudjay and all the founders of the Sobahya Festival. Our thanks also go to the organizing committee. The region is proud to promote such a culture. The twentieth edition of the Sobahya Festival was a resounding success,” declared the head of the Boeny region, Nasolo Adakalo.
The Minister of National Education and coach minister for the Boeny region, Sendra Nirina Rajaonarison, was also present at the opening of this 20th edition in Katsepy.
The closing of the event featured various activities and sports competitions, including sack races and duck fishing at sea. On Saturday evening, a concert featuring renowned artists such as Jaojoby, Maman Tsololo, Dah Vie, and DJ Abdel was sold out. The dance party, which has become a true tradition, was also punctuated by fashion shows and demonstrations of outfits made from Sobahya fabric.
Captured & Published at: 2026-08-25 05:38:34 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/08/patrimoine-culturel-le-createur-du.html