The ever-raging conflicts are fuelling Africa’s refugee crises, piling pressure on the hosts. Whereas foreign assistance such as India’s rice donation to Burkina Faso projects the contribution of international partners, it raises concerns over Africa’s dependency. If a continent with approximately 65% of the world’s arable land and abundant water and sunshine, is incapable of feeding its refugee population appropriately, it suggests that the available natural resources are being underutilised or mismanaged.

This mismanagement, according to the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), manifests in the persistent conflict over resources, like in the Horn of Africa, Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan and Northern Nigeria, which displaces millions from their homes, dispossessing them of their assets. These events disrupt the agricultural value chain and claim a substantial chunk of the national budget, denying other pressing needs, particularly humanitarian response, of much-needed support.

“Conflict removes able-bodied men from agricultural production and, incidentally, places an extra work burden on women. It also diverts resources, directly and indirectly, from more productive and socially beneficial uses, and tests the willingness of the international community to provide assistance,” notes FAO, highlighting the equally disruptive role of other human-induced situations like drought and population booms and natural hazards, which channel resources away from development activities.

The pressure from foreign aid withdrawal should compel African countries to think more critically about models that are tailored for their local context, those that foster self-sustenance. And indeed, some, like Uganda, are transitioning to an alternative approach: development financing , which requires local government units to assume the role of providing social services to the refugees. However, such shifts are not devoid of limitations, especially with little or no support from stakeholders, most importantly, the refugee and host populations whose commitment contributes significantly to the prospect of peaceful coexistence.

“…the immediate challenge is to shift from a mindset focused on care and maintenance to one promoting development solutions to displacement. More specifically, there needs to be a move to sustainable interventions focused on economic inclusion and the promotion of self-reliance,” analysts urge.

With the biggest portion of Africa’s humanitarian sector foreign-funded, it’s time for the continent to pursue a comprehensive and integrated refugee policy that ensures proper utilisation of its vast natural resources, ensuring equitable distribution. The new framework must align with the African Union’s aspirations, such as fostering unity, and address long-standing issues, especially the inclusion of refugees in national development and self-reliance. The existing frameworks, like the 1969 OAU Convention, need reform. The new framework should capture the shifting dynamics, “including its definition of a refugee, in light of today’s Africa,” writes expert J O Moses Okello, emphasising the need to represent the actual realities.

The opinions and thoughts expressed in this article reflect only the author's views.

While the three juntas share similar rhetoric and have formed new regional groupings, they have struggled to translate alignment into seamless military cooperation or shared strategy against insurgent violence that moves easily across borders.

The lack of joint planning, intelligence-sharing and operational trust has left each government fighting largely on its own, undermining the idea that a Russia-backed Sahel front can deliver region-wide security gains.

Russia’s own approach is also drawing blowback. Reports of heavy-handed tactics and abuses linked to Moscow-aligned forces have fuelled resentment in some areas and, in some cases, strengthened armed groups’ recruitment narratives.

That reputational cost, combined with limited improvements on the ground, is making Russia’s offer less attractive than it looked when anti-Western sentiment was at its peak.

At the same time, Moscow no longer has the Sahel to itself. China, Türkiye and the UAE are expanding business, military and diplomatic footprints in the region, giving junta leaders more options and reducing Russia’s leverage.

The Ministry of Economy and Finance, through the National Coordination for the Fight Against Fraud (CNLF), handed over 3,255 counterfeit March 8 fabrics to the Ministry of Family and Solidarity on March 9, 2026, in Ouagadougou. The fabrics were seized during anti-fraud operations in Bobo-Dioulasso and are valued at over 3.5 million CFA francs. Instead of destroying the counterfeit goods, authorities decided to donate them to vulnerable and internally displaced women. Finance Minister Aboubakar Nacanabo, therefore, transferred the fabrics to Family and Solidarity Minister Lt.-Col. Passowendé Pélagie Kabré for distribution to those in need.

ALT President holds talks with UNHCR on refugee protection

The President of Burkina Faso’s Transitional Legislative Assembly, Ousmane Bougouma, met a UNHCR delegation in Ouagadougou on March 9, 2026, led by Assistant High Commissioner for Protection Ruven Menkdiwela and Regional Director for West and Central Africa Abdouraouf Gnon-Kondé. The talks focused on strengthening cooperation between UNHCR and Burkinabe authorities to improve protection for refugees, internally displaced persons, stateless people and host communities. Menkdiwela praised the role of parliament in adopting laws that protect vulnerable groups, particularly women and children, and thanked the Legislative Assembly for its commitment to supporting people in need.

Ghana National Day: Foreign Affairs officials attend

Burkina Faso’s Foreign Minister Karamoko Jean Marie Traoré and Deputy Minister Bêbgnasgan Stella Eldine Kabré joined the Ghanaian community in Ouagadougou on March 6 to celebrate Ghana’s 69th Independence Day. The event highlighted the long-standing ties between the two neighbouring countries, which share deep historical, cultural and economic links. Officials also welcomed the outcomes of the 13th Joint Cooperation Commission, where seven legal agreements were signed to strengthen bilateral cooperation.

Burkina Faso PM meets Moroccan ambassador on cooperation

Burkina Faso’s Prime Minister Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo met Moroccan Ambassador Youssef Slaoui in Ouagadougou on March 10, 2026, to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation . Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the strategic partnership between Burkina Faso and Morocco, building on South-South cooperation. They also highlighted the 5th Joint Commission held in December 2025, which marked 60 years of diplomatic relations and led to the signing of 14 agreements in sectors including agriculture, vocational training, trade and security.

Economic governance records 79% implementation from 2021–2025

Burkina Faso’s Economy and Finance Minister Aboubakar Nacanabo chaired the 2026 review of the Economic Governance Sectoral Dialogue Framework in Ouagadougou on March 10. The meeting assessed progress under the 2021–2025 action plan, which recorded a 79% implementation rate despite security and economic challenges. Authorities also reported over 13 trillion CFA francs in domestic revenue mobilisation, surpassing forecasts, and highlighted the country’s removal from the FATF grey list as a key reform milestone.

Naiker described the project as aligning with a “pan-African” vision in support of the country’s leadership, emphasising its role in fostering innovation and local expertise. While most African space-related infrastructure to date has focused on satellite reception or data ground stations, this plan would take a further step into actual manufacturing on the continent.

The facility could ultimately provide African engineers and researchers with a platform to develop satellites tailored to the region’s specific needs, such as environmental monitoring, disaster response and digital connectivity — sectors where space technology is increasingly seen as essential.

Observers of Africa’s growing tech ecosystem say the agreement reflects a broader trend of expanding scientific capacity across the continent, which already includes satellite launches and ground station developments in countries such as Senegal and Namibia. A successful implementation could mark a significant milestone for African participation in the global space industry.

“We are a proud nation with a sense of dignity and we want to develop in this spirit, honestly and decently,” he said.

The remarks come as Burkina Faso continues to distance itself from France and strengthen ties with new partners, including Russia . Since a military coup in 2022, the West African country has expelled French troops and ended several long-standing defence agreements.

Despite criticism from some Western governments, Traore rejected claims that Burkina Faso is isolating itself diplomatically.

“At the same time, we are not a closed country,” he said. “We are open to cooperation with all partners provided they treat us with respect and consider our point of view.”

He added that portrayals of Burkina Faso as turning inward are misleading. “In certain circles there is an attempt to depict our country as having taken the path of isolation, but that is simply not true,” he said. “Those who visit Burkina Faso know very well there is enough to be open and sincere to build mutual and beneficial partnerships.”

Burkina Faso is currently governed by a military administration led by Captain Ibrahim Traore and continues to face serious security threats from jihadist insurgents.

“I have seen that Europe continues to buy Russian gas, but Europe does not want our countries to talk about Russia,” he said. “I think we need to be a bit more honest and sincerely recognise each other’s potential. Our struggle is to determine for ourselves with whom we want to cooperate,” he added.

Traore said Burkina Faso wants the freedom to “analyse, choose, formulate, create and evaluate” its partnerships independently.

Traore also confirmed that Burkina Faso is deepening cooperation with Russia in civil nuclear energy.

“This is no longer just a plan,” he said. “We are already collaborating with Russia in the field of nuclear energy. The Minister of Energy has signed the memorandum.” He added that the country is now working to establish the legal and institutional framework required for the project.

Burkina Faso, led by a military government since a 2022 coup, has strengthened ties with Russia while distancing itself from France, its former colonial power.

Despite sanctions imposed after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, several European Union countries continue to import Russian fossil fuels.

According to the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), France was the EU’s largest importer of Russian fossil fuels in February 2025, purchasing €399 million worth. Some liquefied natural gas (LNG) delivered to France’s Dunkerque terminal was later sent to Germany.

Hungary ranked second with €307 million in imports, including crude oil and pipeline gas. Belgium was third, importing €266 million worth of Russian LNG, some of which may have been re-exported to other EU states.

Overall, the EU accounted for 14 percent of global Russian fossil fuel purchases in February, spending around €1.7 billion, nearly half of which was on LNG.

The intelligence agency claims that Macron has authorised a plan to “eliminate ‘undesirable leaders’ in Africa,”  comparing the strategy to historical American operations in South America.

The SVR report describes the French leadership as “refined racists from Paris” who are struggling to maintain their reputation as a “parasitic metropolis, robbing its former colonies and hindering their development”.

The agency further alleges that France is “directly supporting terrorists of various stripes” and collaborating with the “Ukrainian regime” to supply militants in the Sahel with drones and instructors to destabilise sovereign governments.

A primary target of this alleged "destructive attention" is Madagascar, where a military takeover in October 2025 ousted President Andry Rajoelina. 

The SVR claims that because the new government under Colonel Randrianirina is “committed to developing relations with BRICS,” Paris is actively “exploring ways to overthrow” the new president to “restore a loyal regime”.

The coup in Madagascar followed a period of intense domestic turmoil triggered by widespread economic discontent, with 80% of the population living below the poverty line and the country suffering from high levels of corruption. The immediate spark for the 2025 protests involved persistent power outages and water shortages in the capital, Antananarivo. 

The movement was largely driven by Generation Z activists, organised via the "Gen Z Mada" social media movement, which used symbols like the "Jolly Roger" flag from the anime One Piece to represent rebellion against oppressive systems. 

The transition of power was finalised on October 15, 2025, after the elite military unit CAPSAT aligned with demonstrators and Parliament impeached Rajoelina, who eventually fled into exile citing an assassination plot.

The SVR’s warnings of French-backed destabilisation coincide with a major security incident in Niger. 

On January 29, General Abdourahamane Tiani, leader of Niger’s military junta, accused France, Benin, and Côte d’Ivoire of sponsoring a "terrorist attack" on the Diori Hamani International Airport in Niamey.

The assault, which involved gunfire and explosions, damaged the fuselage and wings of commercial aircraft belonging to ASKY Airlines and Air Côte d’Ivoire. During a televised address, General Tiani named President Macron as a primary sponsor of the operation. 

“We have heard them bark, they should be ready to hear us roar,” Tiani declared. He also extended specific gratitude to Russian troops stationed at the base for “defending their sector” during the skirmish.

The SVR report also links France to an attempted coup in Burkina Faso on January 3, which aimed to assassinate the country's military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré. 

Russian intelligence asserts that “France’s involvement... has already been established,” and claims similar efforts are underway to overthrow President Assimi Goïta in Mali through city blockades and terror against civilians. 

The trip comes as the United States tries to move past what it described as previous policy missteps and re-engage with governments in the region on shared security and economic concerns.

“The United States looks forward to discussing next steps for enhancing US-Mali cooperation,” the statement said.

Checker is also expected to consult with other Sahel governments, including Burkina Faso and Niger, as Washington reassesses its approach in a region facing political upheaval, military rule and shifting international alliances.

The Sahel has become a key focus of global security concerns due to militant violence , repeated coups and growing foreign influence, including increased Russian engagement.

US officials said the Bamako visit is part of efforts to strengthen cooperation on regional stability and development, while recognising the sovereignty of Sahel states.

The United States established diplomatic relations with Mali in 1960, following its independence from France .

Authorities in Ouagadougou framed the decision as a step towards strengthening economic, cultural and people -to-people ties across the continent. The move aligns with Pan-African integration goals championed by the African Union, including the long-term objective of freer movement of people within Africa, even as practical and security-related restrictions remain in place.

Burkina Faso’s policy mirrors similar approaches adopted by other African states seeking to encourage regional tourism and business travel. Countries such as Rwanda, Ghana and Kenya have taken comparable steps in recent years, reducing visa barriers for African travellers in an effort to boost trade and connectivity within the continent.

The visa fee waiver also carries symbolic weight at a time when Burkina Faso is redefining its regional and diplomatic relationships. Despite ongoing security challenges and its withdrawal from ECOWAS, the government has presented the measure as a signal of continued engagement with Africa at large, prioritising continental links over traditional regional blocs.

Authorities said the airline has faced serious financial and operational difficulties for several years, which have weakened its ability to function and damaged its financial position.

To address the crisis, the Burkinabe state has launched a restructuring process aimed at restoring the company’s long-term viability.

As part of that effort, on September 24, 2024, the government acquired all shares held by a private investor, 111 shares representing 1% of Air Burkina’s capital. That transaction made the state the airline’s sole shareholder.

The decree adopted this week is intended to legally formalise the acquisition and regularise the state’s full ownership in line with Burkina Faso’s laws governing public capital companies.

The government described the decision as a key step in reviving the national carrier and strengthening Burkina Faso’s air transport sector.

The talks covered cooperation in space exploration and the use of Russian space technologies in Burkina Faso. Both sides also reaffirmed their commitment to working through United Nations frameworks to address concerns about the militarisation of outer space.

During the meeting, Gorbunov presented the prime minister with Burkina Faso’s national flag, which had spent about six months aboard the International Space Station during his mission.

The engagement builds on a September agreement signed in Bamako, where officials from Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger reached a deal with Russia’s space agency, Roscosmos, to jointly develop telecommunications and remote-sensing satellites.

The initiative is intended to support regional priorities such as strengthening security , improving disaster response and expanding high-speed internet access.

Dr Joseph Siegle, who leads research on Russian influence in Africa at the Africa Centre for Strategic Studies, said Moscow’s engagement is driven more by geostrategic goals than long-term economic investment.

Russia has positioned itself as an alternative ally by offering diplomatic backing and security cooperation to the transitional governments in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, he said.

Siegle also described the AES as largely symbolic, warning that the three governments lack the economic and security capacity to operate as a cohesive bloc. “The promotion appears intended more to enhance the international credibility of these governments than to achieve tangible regional cooperation,” he told Space in Africa .

The agreement, which began in June 202,5 was established through cooperation between Burkina Faso’s Centre for the Promotion of Poultry Farming and the Multiplication of High-Performing Animals (CPAMAP) and the Daniel Franco Institute in Brazil. 

The imported cattle include specialised breeds such as Guzéra, Gir, Holstein, and Nelore. The first three breeds are targeted at strengthening dairy production, while the Nelore breed is expected to support beef production, with the ability to reach weights of up to 1,100 kilograms by the age of five.

Burkina Faso’s local dairy cows currently produce between 0.5 and 1.3 litres of milk daily. The imported Brazilian breeds are capable of producing between 15 and 40 litres per day. 

“Brazil has expertise in breeding high-performing breeds and also similarities in climatic conditions with Burkina Faso. We thought that the animals coming from this country might adapt better,” said Ardiouma Sirima, Director General of CPAMAP.

This importation is part of Burkina Faso's broader efforts to reduce its dependence on dairy imports, which averaged 25,000 tonnes per year from 2020 to 2024. Supporting programmes include Faso Kosam, which focuses on dairy processing, and Faso Abattoir, which aims to improve meat production and export infrastructure .

While Burkina Faso looks to strengthen its domestic capacity, Brazil continues to set records in beef exports. 

In October 2025, Brazil exported 357,000 tonnes of beef, the highest monthly figure in its history. This represents an 18.7% increase compared to October 2024 and generated revenue of US$1.90 billion.

Data from the Association of Brazilian Beef Exporters (ABIEC) shows that Brazil’s total beef exports from January to October 2025 reached 2.79 million tonnes, with a revenue of US$14.31 billion—a 35.9% increase over 2024. 

Brazilian beef reached 162 markets during the year. China accounted for 53% of October exports, while exports to Mexico rose by 213%, the European Union by 109%, and the United States by 45%, despite increased tariffs.

Authorities in Ouagadougou are pursuing Damiba over a list of serious allegations. These include misappropriation of public funds, illicit enrichment, corruption, incitement to commit crimes, aggravated receiving of stolen goods, and money laundering. However, the most significant charge involves an alleged plan to assassinate Captain Traoré.

Togo’s justice ministry said it reviewed the request and followed the country’s legal procedures for extradition. 

The statement noted that Burkina Faso gave certain guarantees, including respect for Damiba’s rights, a fair trial, protection of his physical integrity and dignity, and a confirmation that he would not face the death penalty.

“The extradition was approved after Burkina Faso provided guarantees based on reciprocity, international legal instruments Togo is a party to, and assurances that Damiba’s rights would be respected during the process, including a fair trial, protection of his physical integrity and dignity, and confirmation that he would not face the death penalty,” the statement read.

Damiba was arrested on January 16 and transferred to Burkinabè authorities the next day, January 17.

Earlier this month, Burkina Faso’s Security Minister Mahamadou Sana said in a television broadcast that a planned coup had been foiled. He said the attempt, aimed at killing Captain Traoré, was scheduled for the night of January 3. The minister accused Damiba of being the mastermind and added that 70 million CFA francs (about £92,000) had come from Côte d’Ivoire to fund the plan.

Burkina Faso officials have accused Damiba multiple times of plotting from exile. In late 2024, he was named as the head of what they called the “ military wing” of a wider conspiracy.

Damiba had seized power in January 2022 by ousting President Roch Marc Christian Kaboré, citing the government’s failure to stop Islamist violence. But eight months later, in September 2022, he was overthrown by Traoré.

Since then, Traoré’s military government has strengthened its hold on power. It has removed French troops, adopted a more nationalist direction, and reinstated the death penalty, including for high treason.

When it happened

The attempt was set to happen on the night of Saturday, 3 January 2026. On that day, some social media users started posting about a possible threat to the government, which led some people to protest in the streets. A pro-government web TV station broke the news on 5 January, and the official confirmation came on Tuesday, 7 January.

Who is accused

The government has blamed Lt Col Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba for leading the plan. Damiba previously led Burkina Faso after taking power in January 2022. He was removed by Captain Traoré in September 2022 and has been living in Togo since then.

Minister Sana said Damiba was responsible for putting the plan together. He allegedly brought in both military and civilian supporters and received money from outside the country to carry out the plan. The minister claimed that 70 million CFA francs (£92,000) came from Côte d’Ivoire to help fund the operation.

What was planned

According to reports, the group aimed to kill Captain Traoré either directly or by using explosives at his home. After that, they allegedly wanted to:

Minister Sana said, "Our intelligence services intercepted this operation in the final hours. They had planned to assassinate the head of state and then strike other key institutions, including civilian personalities". He also added, "after this action, there was to follow an operation to put the drone base out of service, and a ground military intervention by external forces".

Current status

Several people have been arrested, and investigations are still ongoing. Sana told the public that the threat had been contained and warned them "not to be misled, out of naivety, into dangerous schemes". He said the government will release videos of confessions from those involved and that they will face legal consequences.

Niger’s Prime Minister, Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine, warned that the region’s continued dependence on imports remained deeply troubling despite its vast natural wealth. He said it was unacceptable that Sahelian countries still rely on foreign supplies for basic items such as needles, matches, footwear and kitchen utensils, as well as everyday consumer goods.

Mali’s Minister of Industry and Trade, Moussa Alassane Diallo, urged closer economic complementarity among AES member states. He argued that the alliance should prioritise intra-regional trade, saying Mali’s gold should benefit Niger and Burkina Faso, Niger’s oil should supply Mali and Burkina Faso, and Burkina Faso’s iron resources should be used to support development across the region.

Burkina Faso’s Minister of Trade , Serge Gnaniodem Poda, said the meeting demonstrated a shared determination to translate the vision of AES leaders into practical outcomes. He stressed the need for a strong national private sector, describing it as dynamic, patriotic, committed and disciplined.

Poda added that the AES offers a rare opportunity to rebuild member economies and establish a genuinely integrated regional market.

The discussions are part of broader efforts to put in place the legal and institutional foundations of the Sahel Alliance, ahead of a Heads of State Conference scheduled to take place later this month.

Watch the full interview:

However, subsequent reports show an increase in terrorist activity across the Sahel. Armed groups continue to grow in strength and territorial reach, leading to instability across Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. These three countries formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) in 2023 as part of a collective defence initiative.

United Nations reports highlight widespread violence, noting that entire communities have been displaced in Burkina Faso, northern Mali, and western Niger. This displacement stems from continued clashes between armed groups, intercommunal violence, and military operations.

In Mali, the Security Council reports that Jama’at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM), an al-Qaeda affiliate, has launched attacks on over 100 fuel tankers and abducted fuel truck drivers near the capital, Bamako, and other locations.

Burkina Faso’s government has approved a new National Security Strategy (NSS) covering the years 2026 to 2030. The policy aims to strengthen the country's capacity to address evolving security threats, particularly terrorism and regional instability. It emphasises the integration of technology in national defence systems to protect citizens and critical infrastructure. The new framework also prioritises coordination between military, intelligence, and civil institutions, marking a significant step toward modernising Burkina Faso’s security architecture.

Investor confidence restored

In a sign of economic recovery, Burkina Faso successfully mobilised 131 billion CFA francs ($231 million) through its recent financial initiatives. This achievement marks a turning point for investor confidence, highlighting the government’s effective fiscal management despite regional challenges. The capital raised will support national development projects and help stabilise public finances. Analysts say the outcome reflects investors' growing trust in the country’s economic direction and resilience amidst global financial pressures.

Burkina Faso to host Pan-African media hub

Burkina Faso has announced plans to establish a Pan-African media hub in its capital, Ouagadougou, as part of a continental strategy to strengthen information sovereignty. The initiative aims to promote African narratives and reduce dependency on foreign media networks. By hosting the media centre, the country seeks to position itself as a key player in African communication and cultural industries, fostering collaboration among media professionals and institutions across the continent. This aligns with the government’s broader goal of asserting digital and artistic independence.

Burkina Faso charts its path towards an inclusive future

The Burkinabè government is accelerating its digital transformation agenda through a comprehensive national roadmap focused on connectivity, innovation, and data security. The initiative seeks to ensure inclusive access to digital services across urban and rural areas, fostering technological innovation and entrepreneurship. Priority areas include strengthening digital infrastructure, enhancing cybersecurity, and promoting ICT education. The program underscores Burkina Faso’s vision of becoming a regional model for digital inclusion and economic diversification in West Africa.

The five-article law orders the dissolution of the CENI, transfers all of its powers and responsibilities to the Ministry of Territorial Administration, and mandates the handover of its assets, archives and official records. It also repeals earlier legal provisions and outlines enforcement terms.

State Minister for Territorial Administration Émile Zerbo said the reform is intended to “strengthen institutional coherence” with the country’s Transition Charter and improve efficiency within government.

“We conducted a review of existing institutions and found that the CENI no longer reflected current sociopolitical realities and had become financially burdensome,” Zerbo said. He noted that the commission’s annual operating budget, close to 500 million CFA francs outside election cycles, was unsustainable amid tighter fiscal conditions .

The minister added that the decision followed recommendations from a national dialogue held on 25 May 2024, which called for rationalising state structures and extending the transition period.

A committee will oversee the reassignment of the CENI’s 104 staff members and the redistribution of its resources. “What remains useful will be retained,” Zerbo said, indicating that personnel and equipment may be absorbed into government services.

With the CENI now dissolved, the responsibility for organising future elections shifts directly to the Ministry of Territorial Administration.

What they said

"Burkina Faso is not a land of deportation," Traore said, calling the request from the U.S. unworthy and indecent. Noting that Burkina Faso recently decided to lift visa fees for all Africans, he said the country's hospitality "should not be seen as an opportunity for a third country to get rid of certain populations that it considers undesirable."

The ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development's head of Research and Strategic Planning, MacDonald Goanue told Global South World

An immediate problem for the bank has been that it has had to delay the sale of Eurobonds: “Because of the geopolitical situation and rising tariffs in the United States, the cost of funding has gone up,” Goanue said in an exclusive interview at the Crans Montana Forum. “Given the fact that we are a non-investment-grade bank, we are waiting to see how the market cools down before we can go.”

For Goanue, this is not a problem confined to EBID. It reflects a deeper flaw in the international financial architecture. Credit rating agencies, he argues, apply methodologies that “tend to punish” African countries because of structural factors - security risks, low per-capita incomes, shallow domestic markets - that are hard to change overnight. When West African regional entities try to raise capital, they end up paying nine or ten percent interest - sometimes even 12 percent - far higher than institutions elsewhere.

While a major part of the answer lies in debt forgiveness, countries can also improve their situations but developing deeper domestic capital markets, he argued. However he cautioned against following artificial deadlines for the introduction of a single currency - the Eco is still official slated for 2027.

"I think the leadership of ECOWAS is playing cautious, because they want to be sure that they don't want to go into an arrangement tomorrow that will collapse," he said, adding that intraregional trade only accounted for perhaps 8 percent within the block against 77 percent in the euro area prior to the introduction of the Euro.

Powering growth

Against this backdrop, EBID’s core mission is to finance infrastructure—especially energy. Access to electricity in West Africa is among the lowest in the world, a bottleneck that constrains industrialisation, raises costs for basic services, and feeds inflation. Nigeria, the region’s largest economy, still faces enormous deficits in power supply, while only a few countries like Cape Verde and Côte d’Ivoire have relatively high coverage.

Goanue, himself Liberian, paints a vivid picture: without reliable electricity, shops close at sunset, hospital services cost more to run, and even banks struggle with overheads. “With electricity access, there will be a 24-hour economy,” he said. “Small businesses can stay open later, people feel safer, and factories can be powered. It will create the entrepreneurial spirit.”

EBID has already financed power plants in Benin, Togo, and Côte d’Ivoire and is seeking to increase its footprint in Nigeria. One flagship example is the Maria Glater plant in Benin, which the bank has supported. Yet the scale of the challenge is immense, and Goanue is cautious about promising big breakthroughs in the next 12 months. “It takes time,” he said, noting that the bank also funds connecting roads and other infrastructure that underpin regional trade.

Climate considerations

How does EBID square this urgent need for energy with global pressure to shift away from fossil fuels? Goanue admits it is not easy. “It’s not possible to end investment in fossil fuels immediately,” he said. Nigeria’s budget, for example, still relies heavily on oil revenues, and new discoveries are seen as good news by African governments. EBID does have environmental, social, and governance (ESG) policies, and most of its member states subscribe to the Paris Climate Accord, but Goanue emphasises that transition will take time. “There is a way you can make these things clean,” he said. “We want to invest into clean energy, but we have to balance it.”

Managing a split

Guanoe is evidently proud of his institutions pragamtic approach to the biggest challenge ECOWAS has faced in recent times - the departure or Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger - reducing the bloc's membership to twelve. With major major exposure in these states - about 23 percent of its portfolio or more than $200 million - the bank has resisted pressure to pull out completely.

Instead, the bank has persuaded ECOWAS leaders to let it continue disbursing funds for ongoing projects and to keep staff from these countries in place. Goanue likens the approach to how British citizens were treated in EU institutions after Brexit. “We are careful and circumspect to ensure that our facilities are repaid,” he said. Burkina Faso has stayed current on its restructured repayments, Mali has restarted payments, and Niger is making token transfers despite fiscal stress.

This pragmatic stance is driven by economic as much as political logic. If EBID simply withdrew, non-performing loans would spike, undermining its own creditworthiness and pushing up borrowing costs further. In addition, nobody benefits if projects already paid for are not completed.

A brighter future

Despite the obstacles, Goanue remains optimistic. West Africa’s population exceeds 480 million—roughly the size of the European Union —but its GDP is only around $700 billion, and per-capita incomes and banking penetration are low. Building deeper domestic markets, harmonising regulations, and moving toward a single currency are all on the agenda.

What gives him hope is demographics. The region’s average age is under 20, offering a potential “youth dividend” if the right investments in capacity and infrastructure are made.

The work is much needed: more than 10 percent of Burkina Faso's 23 million population are facing extreme hunger according to the United Nations . While much of the problem results from instability and conflict, improving efficiency in areas where farmers can grow is part of the solution.

But Sawadogo's ambitions go much further. He hopes to contribute to a world where Africa is a net supplier of food and calls on the international community to recognise and support the continent's transformation.

Burkina Faso’s Prime Minister Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo landed in New York for the 80th UN General Assembly , urging his delegation to project unity and discipline. He said the forum must be used to “expose, in no uncertain terms, Burkina Faso’s position on major global issues.” Starting Monday, September 22, the Burkinabè team will begin a series of high-level meetings, vowing to defend national sovereignty and make their voice “clear and coherent” among world leaders.

Global governance

Burkinabè Foreign Minister Karamoko Jean Marie Traoré met China’s ambassador Zhao Deyong on Friday for the official presentation of President Xi Jinping’s Global Governance Initiative. The framework promotes a multipolar world anchored in respect for sovereignty, international law, and multilateralism. Traoré praised the plan as fully aligned with Captain Ibrahim Traoré’s vision for Burkina Faso, saying the country “fully adheres” to its principles.

International Criminal Court

Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger jointly announced their withdrawal from the International Criminal Court (ICC), blasting it as “a tool of neocolonial repression.” The Alliance of Sahel States (AES) argued that the ICC is incapable of addressing war crimes and is selective in its justice. The move follows their earlier break from ECOWAS and pivot toward Russia, underscoring the bloc’s widening distance from Western institutions.

Guinea-Burkina Faso partnership

Burkina Faso’s Prime Minister Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo met Equatorial Guinea’s Vice President Teodoro Nguema Obiang on the sidelines of the UNGA, with both sides pushing for ties that go beyond “declarations.” Ouédraogo insisted the political friendship must translate into “operational content” through bilateral consultations and joint commissions. The talks mark a renewed effort to turn warm words into shared projects in security and development.

Visit to Crimea

Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry condemned as “illegal” a September 19 visit by ambassadors from Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso to Crimea, where they held talks with local authorities on trade, investment, and education. Kyiv said the move violated international law. The three Sahel states — now aligned as the AES — have already cut ties with Ukraine, citing its alleged support for “terrorist activities” in the Sahel. The controversy adds another layer of strain between Kyiv and the region’s juntas.

What they said

“The ICC has proven itself incapable of handling and prosecuting proven war crimes, crimes against humanity, crimes of genocide, and crimes of aggression,” the three countries said in their joint statement , adding that the court had “transformed into an instrument of neocolonial repression in the hands of imperialism.” They accused the tribunal of being “a global example of selective justice” and declared their intention to develop “indigenous mechanisms for the consolidation of peace and justice.”

The latest statement builds on proposals raised at an earlier AES meeting in Bamako, where ministers discussed creating a Sahelian Criminal and Human Rights Court and establishing a high-security prison to try terrorism cases locally, reducing what they described as “dependence” on international justice institutions.

The AES, which brings together military-led governments in Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, has frequently accused Western governments and media of undermining its security campaigns. Alongside the allegations against France and Ukraine, AES authorities have suspended broadcasts by France 24, RFI, and TV5Monde, and launched an investigation into a France 24 journalist over alleged ties to jihadist groups.

"From now on, any citizen from an African country wishing to go to Burkina Faso will not pay any amount to cover visa fees," Security Minister Mahamadou Sana explained after the meeting.

He added that African visitors would still be required to submit an online visa application, which will be reviewed for approval.

According to a statement released by the government’s information service, "This free visa system for African nationals will also help promote tourism and Burkinabe culture, and improve Burkina Faso's visibility abroad." The announcement stressed that the policy reflects Burkina Faso’s “attachment to Pan-Africanist ideals and promotes regional integration”.

The West African country joins Ghana, Rwanda and Kenya, which have also recently eased travel requirements for African visitors. Earlier this year, Ghana said all African passport holders could visit without a visa, while Kenya introduced a visa-free policy in 2023 requiring only online authorisation. Rwanda has also long waived visa requirements for African travellers.

Citizens of West African countries have already been able to travel to Burkina Faso without visas under the ECOWAS framework. But Burkina Faso, alongside Mali and Niger, withdrew from ECOWAS earlier this year, raising uncertainty over whether such arrangements will remain in the long term.

Capt. Traoré, who seized power in a 2022 coup, has promoted himself as a Pan-African leader opposed to Western influence and colonial legacies. His popularity has surged across the continent, particularly on social media .

A recent map published by The World in Maps reveals that more than half of Africa’s 54 nations still criminalise homosexuality, despite growing global recognition of LGBTQ+ rights.

According to the European Parliamentary Research Service, 31 African countries maintain laws that make consensual same-sex relations a criminal offence, ranging from fines and prison sentences to, in rare cases, harsher penalties . ILGA World, a global LGBTQ+ advocacy group, reports similar numbers, with 33 countries enforcing some form of criminalisation as of 2023.

The legal picture is far from static. In September 2025, Burkina Faso passed legislation banning the “promotion of homosexuality,” introducing prison terms of two to five years and significant fines. Similarly, Mali’s new penal code, adopted in December 2024, explicitly criminalised same-sex acts and any advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights.

Yet there are countercurrents. In mid-2024, Namibia’s High Court struck down colonial-era laws banning same-sex relationships, calling them unconstitutional and signalling a potential shift toward greater recognition of LGBTQ+ rights in parts of Southern Africa.

These laws are not just a domestic issue. They shape global perceptions of African markets and influence foreign aid, investment decisions, and diplomatic ties. International donors and human rights organisations frequently condemn anti-LBGTQ legislation, sometimes conditioning aid or trade agreements on human rights compliance.

Multinational corporations, too, are paying closer attention. As ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) criteria become a cornerstone of global investing, countries perceived as repressive risk being excluded from certain capital flows.

Analysts warn that such laws may also deepen public health crises by discouraging vulnerable groups from seeking care, with economic consequences that ripple across labour markets and national productivity.

Recent developments have put Africa’s legal stance on LGBTQ+ rights back into the global conversation just as investors weigh risk amid geopolitical uncertainty. Experts argue that legal crackdowns, whether in Burkina Faso or Ghana, where a controversial “Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill” is under debate, could raise reputational and political risk premiums for investors.

According to the government , nine reports from nine ministerial departments were approved, resulting in the dismissal of the officials involved in the diploma fraud cases.

The Council also examined reforms under the Ministry of Civil Service, Labour and Social Protection. A new decree introduced a priority clause requiring public officials to serve the state for at least 15 years, which corresponds to the minimum service period for proportional retirement. Civil Service Minister Mathias Traoré explained that officials who fail to meet this requirement would be obliged to reimburse the state for training costs.

Traoré stated that the measure demonstrates the commitment of Captain Traoré to fight corruption and safeguard integrity in the country’s public administration.

In addition, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs presented a decree regulating the conditions of assignment and residence for staff in Burkina Faso’s diplomatic missions. “This decree sets a new salary scale for all agents assigned to embassies, limits the coverage of travel documents and insurance to agents assigned to embassies, and eliminates the coverage of tuition fees,” said Minister Karamoko Jean Marie Traoré.

According to IMF data, literacy among Burkinabè aged 15 and over rose from 28.3 percent in 2007 to 37.7 percent in 2015. But the country still lags far behind global averages, and educators worry that phones, television and video games are pulling children away from books.

“Nowadays, children prefer cellphones, games, TV, and cartoons to reading,” said Edwige Ouattara, a documentary filmmaker at the Burkina Museum who helps run the project. “Through the Bibliobus, we are promoting reading to young children, encouraging them to love reading,” she told Viory.

The bus carries books to schools, where children can borrow titles and join guided reading sessions. Each day, about 20 children take part, and since its launch, more than 100 young readers have visited.

Inside, shelves are stocked with comics, African storybooks, and international classics such as Alice in Wonderland. Volunteers and teachers help the children explore the books.

“I came to read books in the Bibliobus and I read the book ‘Akissi.’ The book was really interesting, like all the books in the Bibliobus,” said elementary school student Davina Zongo.

The project still faces shortages. “We don’t have enough books for our little ones, and we are counting on the goodwill of others to help us acquire more,” Ouattara said.

She hopes that with donations and volunteer support, the Bibliobus can expand its reach and provide more opportunities for children to develop literacy skills.

Zerbo defended the reform as necessary to reclaim "sovereign control on the electoral process and at the same time limit foreign influences."

In place of the independent electoral commission, the country's interior ministry will take over all forms of future elections.

The electoral commission’s removal marks yet another pivot in the junta’s way of governing.

Having staged coups in January 2022 and again in September of the same year, the military was originally meant to hand over power by July 2024. However, a new charter now lets Capt. Ibrahim Traoré remain in office until July 2029.

This power grab pattern is not unique to Burkina Faso. Across West Africa, military regimes in nations like Mali and Niger have tightened control , often citing civilian governments’ failure to address escalating cost-of-living troubles, as well as Islamist insurgencies .

With the interior ministry taking over elections, can future results ever claim democratic legitimacy?

Since gaining independence from France in 1960, Burkina Faso has experienced at least nine military overthrows . These coups began in 1966 and most recently in 2022, which leaves a legacy of continued instability.

Since 2022, Burkina Faso has been under military rule following two successive coups driven by frustration over the government’s failure to curb escalating Islamist insurgencies.

The first coup, in January 2022, saw Lt. Col. Paul-Henri Damiba take power from civilian ruler Roch Marc Christian Kaboré, only to be overthrown eight months later by Captain Ibrahim Traoré, who accused Damiba of similar failures.

Traoré, then just 34 years old, suspended the constitution and dissolved the legislature, positioning himself as a revolutionary figure in the image of Thomas Sankara, while promising to restore security and sovereignty.

Despite promises of national revival, Burkina Faso’s humanitarian and security crises have worsened. Over 60% of the country is under threat from armed Islamist groups, more than 2 million people are displaced, and civil liberties are shrinking under military censorship.

While many citizens initially welcomed military intervention as a solution to instability, there is growing concern that the regime is replicating a familiar cycle where coups are justified by insecurity, but ultimately lead to greater authoritarianism and democratic erosion.

Yet, this bold stance has come at a cost, with Traoré repeatedly claiming to be the target of sinister plots and assassination attempts aimed at crushing his vision for a sovereign Burkina Faso.

Below are four documented instances where Traoré or his administration have alleged conspiracies against him, casting him as a revolutionary under siege.

September 2023: The "destabilisation" plot

In September 2023, barely a year after seizing power, Traoré’s government announced it had thwarted a coup attempt to destabilise his regime. The junta claimed that plotters, including military officers and civilians, sought to overthrow Traoré and reverse his anti-Western policies, such as expelling French forces. In a statement read out on state television, it said, "A proven coup attempt was foiled on September 26, 2023, by Burkina Faso's intelligence and security services. "At present, officers and other alleged participants in this destabilisation attempt have been arrested and others are being actively sought,"

April 2025: The Ivory Coast conspiracy

On April 21, 2025, Traoré’s junta revealed it had foiled a “major plot” to overthrow him, allegedly orchestrated by current and former soldiers based in Ivory Coast. The conspirators reportedly planned to attack the presidential palace and sow chaos, as detailed by the BBC. The announcement triggered massive rallies in Ouagadougou on April 30, with supporters chanting Traoré’s name across West Africa and the diaspora. Ivory Coast denied any involvement, but the claim heightened regional tensions and reinforced Traoré’s image as a target of foreign-backed schemes.

April 2025: The “119 conspirators” plot

Days before the Ivory Coast plot announcement, Traoré claimed to have survived a sprawling conspiracy involving 119 plotters, allegedly linked to former junta leader Lt. Col. Paul-Henri Damiba. According to SF Bay View on April 12, 2025, this plot was part of a broader claim that Traoré had survived “over 20 assassination attempts.” The junta accused the conspirators of seeking to restore Western-aligned governance, though no independent verification of the plot’s scale has emerged.

June 2025: Conspiracy to betray the AES

On June 9, 2025, President Ibrahim Traoré of Burkina Faso warned that foreign powers are pressuring one member of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) to betray the others, aiming to fracture the regional bloc formed by Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. Speaking at a national flag-raising ceremony in Ouagadougou, where the AES anthem was sung for the first time, Traoré denounced imperialist "manoeuvres" targeting the alliance’s unity and sovereignty. Traoré reaffirmed the alliance’s mission to ensure security, harness regional wealth, and improve living conditions for local populations. Calling for unity and resilience, he emphasised that the Sahel is no longer a zone of influence but a region determined to chart its own path.

These allegations come against a backdrop of unrelenting violence in Burkina Faso, ranked the world’s most terrorism-affected nation by the Global Terrorism Index 2025 , with 6,389 deaths in 2024 alone.

Traoré’s defiance of Western powers, including his 2023 expulsion of French troops and pivot toward Russia, has made him a hero to many but a lightning rod for controversy.

The vehicle was developed by Guedesign Automotive, a Niamey-based manufacturer. According to a report by Defence Blog , the Tamgak Wangari is designed to meet the specific operational needs of the Sahel region, including extreme heat, soft sand, and rugged terrain.

Guedesign Automotive describes the vehicle as offering “high mobility, structural resilience, and ease of maintenance in austere environments with minimal infrastructure ”. 

The company added that the Tamgak Wangari was built entirely in Niger by local engineers and technicians. 

“After 5 months of sweat, sleepless nights, plans, bolts and black coffee... he's finally here. Introducing the first-ever 100% Nigerian military buggy, designed, assembled and refined in our own workshops, by a team that is as passionate as they are stubborn,” the company stated in a Facebook post .

The name “Tamgak” refers to the Tamgak mountains in the Aïr region, which are known for their strength and endurance. “Wangari” symbolises struggle and national pride in local innovation.

Guedesign Automotive further stated that the vehicle was developed not only as a tactical platform but also as a representation of Niger’s sovereignty and industrial self-reliance. 

Niger is currently facing security challenges alongside Mali and Burkina Faso. The three countries have also experienced strained diplomatic ties with Western nations and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

In January, the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) formally withdrew from ECOWAS after refusing to meet conditions for the restoration of civilian rule.

In March, the military government led by General Abdourahamane Tiani designated Hausa as the national language , replacing French.

The pact, endorsed by representatives from radio, television, print, and online outlets, as well as the Burkinabe Media Observatory (OBM) and the CSC, outlines mutual commitments between the press, the state, and media regulators, Le Faso reports.

The document is structured around three main components. The first commits media outlets to publicise the activities of the Defense and Security Forces (FDS) and Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP), promote civic engagement, and contribute to national cohesion and intercommunal understanding.

The second outlines key demands from media actors toward the government , including tax reforms for media companies, full enforcement of the 2015 Right to Information law, and the establishment of a permanent consultation framework between the press and state institutions.

The third section designates the CSC and OBM as responsible for monitoring and facilitating implementation. A six-month review of the pact’s application has been proposed by CSC President Louis Modeste Ouédraogo, reported by Lefaso.net, a local news site.

After the four-hour amendment, adoption, and signing process, CSC President Louis Modeste Ouédraogo congratulated the journalists for their commitment. "We have just taken a historic, highly civic-minded step, which confirms the level of commitment of the entire national press to defending the general interest and safeguarding national unity," he said.

He also remarked that this is not an “attempt to muzzle the press.”

Director General for Radiodiffusion Télévision du Burkina (RTB), Atéridar Galip Somé noted that the state broadcaster has already aligned its editorial approach with national security priorities and described the pact as formalising an existing orientation.

The agreement follows a May 3 workshop organised by the CSC, which recommended a unified media framework to guide coverage during the security crisis.

The discussions come as the implementation period of the African Development Fund-16 (ADF-16) enters its final phase with four new operations valued at a total of $187 million scheduled for approval by the AfDB Board before December 2025, Sidwaya reports.

Burkina Faso's Minister of Economy, Aboubakar Nacanabo, indicated that the ISP mobilised over $700 million, surpassing the projected $682 million. These funds have supported 15 projects across sectors, including rural development, infrastructure, energy, water and sanitation, education, health, and governance.

Since beginning its operations in Burkina Faso in 1970, the AfDB has approved 115 projects totaling $1.8 billion. Speaking at the meeting, AfDB Vice President for Regional Development, Integration and Business Delivery Nnenna Nwabufo, described the current portfolio as "diversified," noting improvements in project quality and an increase of 8.34 million UA in Burkina Faso’s ADF allocation for 2025.

"The volume and diversity of commitments underscore the strength of the partnership between the Bank and Burkina Faso over more than five decades," Nwabufo said. She reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting the country’s development priorities.

Minister Nacanabo echoed this sentiment, calling the results "a reflection of the excellent quality of cooperation." He noted that the ISP provides a framework for clear, predictable interventions and enables early action to address implementation challenges.

The AfDB delegation assured continued support aligned with Burkina Faso’s national development agenda.

“In Burkina Faso, journalists and columnists who are critical of the government are now being forcibly removed and taken to the frontline, ostensibly to observe ‘the reality on the ground,’ a situation that is quite simply unique on the continent,” said Camille Montagu, RSF’s research officer for sub-Saharan Africa.

The report also highlights a climate of fear and surveillance in Guinea, where journalists face mounting risks. “Journalists who remain in the country are closely watched by the authorities. They can be followed in the street,” said Jeanne Lagarde, RSF’s Advocacy Officer for Sub-Saharan Africa, told the AFP.

“They are bearing witness to a deterioration in their security situation,” Lagarde pointed to the abduction of journalist Habib Marouane Camara on December 3 as a troubling example of the growing threats.

While both Guinea and Burkina Faso present serious concerns, there was some positive movement elsewhere in the region. 

Senegal climbed 20 places to 74th in this year’s index, although RSF notes that long-standing issues persist, particularly regarding the economic sustainability of media outlets.

"General Langley adopts a posture that deliberately denies the new sovereignist dynamic of Burkina Faso," the Ministry declared, condemning what it described as "serious inaccuracies" made without evidence and in a context unrelated to Burkina Faso.

The government criticised the U.S. general’s statement for lacking a factual basis and for casting doubt on Burkina Faso’s efforts toward transparent governance , particularly in the management of natural resources.

The Ministry emphasised that these comments, delivered before such a high-level body as the U.S. Senate, were not only unjustified but also damaging to the image and credibility of the Burkinabè state.

"Such light, unfounded, and eminently political remarks are all the more worrying because they were made... by a senior military official," the Ministry added.

In a formal rebuttal, the Ministry reaffirmed the government’s commitment under President Ibrahim Traoré to fight corruption and ensure that all revenues from the mining sector are channelled transparently into the national budget.

"All revenues from mining are now returned to the state coffers and are subject to rigorous and transparent management," the statement noted.

The Foreign Affairs Ministry stressed that the Traoré administration has taken decisive steps to clean up public governance and promote inclusive growth, countering any claims to the contrary.

Joel Ahofodji, Head of Communication for the ECOWAS Commission, confirmed the meeting and said all issues, including possible responses, would be discussed.

He told reporters, "ECOWAS will have an Extraordinary Council on the 22nd of April. All these issues will be discussed."

The AES, formed by the military governments of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, started collecting the new import tax on March 28.

The levy does not apply to humanitarian aid but affects all other goods entering the three countries.

This move has raised concerns because it goes against ECOWAS’s goal of free trade within the region.

Even after Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso left ECOWAS in January 2025, the regional bloc said it would continue to treat their goods and services under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme, which allows duty-free movement.

The new tax could disrupt trade, raise costs, and weaken the regional free trade agreement. Relations between ECOWAS and the three countries have been tense since early 2024 when the three states left the bloc.

The AES countries accused ECOWAS of failing to help them fight terrorism and criticised sanctions that hurt their populations. Although ECOWAS later removed the sanctions, the three countries did not rejoin.

ECOWAS has said it is open to discussions if the AES nations wish to return. The bloc has also introduced measures to ease the impact of the split, including duty-free trade, visa-free movement, and residence for citizens.

Meanwhile, Niger has left the Multinational Joint Task Force, a regional military force that has fought Islamist insurgents in the Lake Chad region since 2015. The force includes troops from Nigeria , Chad, and Cameroon.

The three countries, which are all led by military governments, announced the tax to support their new union, the Alliance of Sahel States.

This alliance began in 2023 as a security pact but now aims to become an economic union with plans for biometric passports and closer military and economic ties.

The new tax means goods from other West African countries will no longer enter Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger freely.

This marks a break from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), a regional group that has promoted free trade across West Africa for decades.

The decision highlights the growing divide between the three Sahel countries and democratic nations like Nigeria and Ghana to the south.

He also revealed his net worth as $128,566, a decision that is different from those of past leaders.

The president also ordered all government officials to declare their assets by March 24, 2025. Those who fail to comply will face legal action.

He also banned officials from doing business with the state to stop corruption.

He promised to improve healthcare in the country to deter people from travelling abroad for treatment.

His actions have earned him praise from many for his stance against corruption and his commitment to serving Burkina Faso’s citizens.

The three countries, all led by military governments, say the passport will replace the ECOWAS passport. However, people can still use their ECOWAS passports until they expire. Citizens are encouraged to register for the new AES passport.

Why these countries have left ECOWAS

Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger left ECOWAS in January 2024, accusing the regional group of not supporting them enough in their fight against terrorism.

They also claim ECOWAS was siding with France, their former colonial power. The withdrawal became official on January 29, 2025.

Since leaving, they have strengthened military and political ties with Russia and other countries. They are also working on forming a joint military force of 5,000 soldiers to fight insurgents in the Sahel region.

What it means for travellers

Before leaving ECOWAS, citizens of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger could travel visa-free to other West African countries. Now, it is not clear if they will need visas to visit ECOWAS nations.

For now, ECOWAS has advised its member states to continue recognising passports from these three countries until further notice. But in the future, travellers may face new border rules, longer checks, or higher fees.

People with family in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger may also face travel difficulties. Many West African families have relatives across borders, especially in areas like Nigeria-Niger and Ghana-Burkina Faso. If new visa rules come in, visiting loved ones may become harder and more expensive.

ECOWAS response

ECOWAS says it will keep its doors open if the three countries want to return. It has also given them a six-month grace period until July to reconsider.

In the meantime, ECOWAS has urged its members to continue allowing trade with Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger under the usual agreements. The regional body says it wants to avoid confusion and economic harm during this transition.

However, leaving ECOWAS means these countries will no longer enjoy duty-free trade within the bloc. Since all three are landlocked, they rely on coastal nations like Ghana, Nigeria, and Benin for international trade. If new tariffs and border restrictions are introduced, goods could become more expensive, affecting businesses and consumers.

What happens next?

The launch of the new passport marks a major shift in West Africa. It signals that Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger are moving further away from ECOWAS and towards their own independent alliance.

While the full impact is still unclear, many experts believe this split could reshape travel, trade, and security in the region. For now, citizens will have to wait and see how governments handle the changes in the months ahead.

The three countries have teamed up to form a separate confederation called the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).

They had formally notified ECOWAS of their plan for an "immediate" withdrawal in January 2024, alleging the organisation's excessive dependence on France in particular. Paris has become the common enemy of the three juntas, which now favour partnerships with countries such as Russia, Turkey and Iran.

In Niger, thousands of people led by members of the military regime gathered around a square in the capital Niamey on Jan. 28 before heading towards the nearby National Assembly.

They chanted slogans hostile to French President Emmanuel Macron as well as other leaders in the region with whom Niger has strained relations, such as Benin, Nigeria and Ivory Coast.

"On January 28, 2024, we announced our exit from ECOWAS with immediate effect. Many thought it was a joke, that we were going to go back on our decision," AFP quoted Ibro Amadou Bacharou, private chief of staff of Niger's junta leader General Abdourahamane Tiani. "This is ending today, there is nothing left between ECOWAS and us," he said. 

"It is in our collective interest to work together in all areas, including in the area of security," Touray tells a press conference in Nigeria's capital Abuja where ECOWAS' headquarters is located.

Prime Minister Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo, addressing the crowd, described the withdrawal as a step toward Burkina Faso's liberation from external control. “ECOWAS is one of the strings of our enslavement that was cut cleanly on 28 January 2024,” Ouédraogo declared. “We know that there are other strings left, but our three heads of state still hold the axe firmly. In other words, all the strings will be cut without a second thought.”

Calling for continued vigilance, the Prime Minister emphasised the struggle for freedom. “This is a message of remobilisation,” he urged. “We must remain vigilant because the imperialists and their puppet institutions will never give up. Freedom is not granted; it is fought for. It comes at the price of sweat and blood.”

Demonstrators echoed the Prime Minister’s sentiments, expressing unwavering support for the decision. Asseta Salogo, one of the protesters, celebrated the move as long overdue. “It’s a very good decision, a good decision that they’ve made,” Salogo told the AFP. “We’ve been waiting for this decision for a long time. Right now, we’re saying: ECOWAS to bat, forever. We can't go back. Either it’s our bodies they’re going to trample on so that we can come back, or it’s corpses they’re going to use to create their damned ECOWAS.”

Another protester, Faraga Bazié, reinforced the irreversible nature of the decision, remarking that, “under no circumstances are we going to look in the rear-view mirror again,” he said. “This doesn't represent the people of the Sahel, Burkina Faso, Mali, or Niger. We take responsibility for ourselves, and history has brought us together. There were just some people who refused to allow this union to see the light of day through a puppet institution, as the Prime Minister has just said.”

The electric car can travel up to 330 kilometres on a single charge, and it takes only 30 minutes to recharge. This makes it suitable for travelling both in cities and rural areas.

The move aims at reducing the country’s reliance on imported vehicles.

The car is expected to create many jobs in areas such as manufacturing, sales, and maintenance. It will also promote the use of renewable energy, helping Burkina Faso reduce its dependence on fossil fuels.

By building cars locally, Burkina Faso can save money, lower its carbon emissions, and possibly create a product for export in the future.

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He called for practices that reflect the country’s culture and independence.

This decision is part of a larger push by the government to promote national identity and reduce foreign influence.

The wigs, once seen as symbols of colonial control, are being replaced by practices tied to local customs.

Burkina Faso joins other African countries working to remove traces of colonial rule and adopt traditions that align with their heritage.

This change is seen as a significant step in celebrating African values and reclaiming cultural pride.

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The announcement comes as Burkina Faso struggles with a growing revolution.

Tambela had served as interim prime minister since 2022 after Traoré took power in a coup that removed Lt. Col. Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba.

Burkina Faso has been battling Islamist violence for nearly a decade. Armed groups linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State have killed thousands and displaced over 2 million people .

Critics, including rights groups, have accused the junta of failing to address the issue.

The military-led transitional government recently extended its rule by five years, delaying promised elections and drawing criticism from international and regional groups.

The junta also cut ties with France and withdrew from the West African bloc ECOWAS.

Burkina Faso’s move also comes after similar events in Mali, where the military recently fired its prime minister after public disagreements.

The UN Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS), which is managed by the WFP, has been instrumental in reaching isolated communities. Between January and September 2024, UNHAS transported nearly 15,000 humanitarian workers and delivered over 500 tonnes of relief supplies.

“This unwavering support has been instrumental in enabling WFP to reach populations in need in Burkina Faso’s hard-to-reach locations,” said Sory Ouane, WFP’s Country Director and Representative in Burkina Faso.

Burkina Faso is facing a severe food crisis. Recent data from the "Cadre Harmonisé" Food Security analysis reveals that approximately 2.7 million people in the country required urgent food assistance during the June to August lean season.

Ouane acknowledged the progress made but highlighted the ongoing challenges. “With the continued support of our partners, including BHA, we can ensure that the most vulnerable – particularly displaced women and children – receive the assistance they need to survive and rebuild their lives,” he added.

The humanitarian efforts come at a crucial time for Burkina Faso, which has been grappling with political instability, security challenges, and humanitarian needs. Following military coups in 2022, the country has struggled to maintain control over vast regions. More than half of Burkina Faso is reportedly under the influence of jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State.

Earlier this month, tens of thousands of Burkinabe were reported to have fled to northern Ivory Coast to escape violence from extremist attacks and military abuses.

The camp has the likeness of a small village rather than a traditional refugee facility, despite the Ivorian government's reluctance to officially recognise the occupants as refugees . However, many locals have made significant efforts to assist them.

The Defence and Security Advisor to the Ivorian President, Paulin Yewe, explained to AFP the government's approach to the crisis. "The National Security Council, chaired by President Alassane Ouattara, recognised the need to reach out to these distressed populations. To prevent destabilising already weakened communities, we decided to identify mechanisms for securing and providing humanitarian assistance."

Adama Maiga, a refugee from the Fulani community, expressed gratitude for the support she has received in Ivory Coast. "We thank God that since we arrived here we've been well received. They give us food and drink. We feel good here," she told the AFP. However, she added, "We came here because of the insecurity. But if there's peace in Burkina Faso, that's where I'd rather go."

Since 2015, escalating violence has resulted in thousands of deaths and displaced about two million people in Burkina Faso, following an insurgency that began in neighbouring Mali.

Two military coups in Burkina Faso in 2022 were sparked by increased attacks from armed groups. Jihadist fighters affiliated with Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State have claimed over 20,000 lives in Burkina Faso, with around 3,800 deaths reported this year alone, according to the ACLED analysis group, which monitors global conflict.