Burkina

The recent U.S. Senate hearing, where a representative from the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) leveled serious allegations against Captain Ibrahim Traoré, has sparked significant controversy. This hearing accused Traoré of misappropriating Burkina Faso’s gold reserves for his personal security rather than utilizing these resources for the betterment of his nation. In the wake of these claims, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has vehemently denied the accusations, asserting that they are unfounded. The EFF…

In recent days, a disturbing wave of unrest has swept through the military ranks of Burkina Faso, igniting fears of a potential coup against the ruling Junta leader, Captain Ibrahim Traore. This turmoil began with unsettling rumors of a conspiracy to overthrow his leadership, which came to power in 2022 amidst a backdrop of escalating insecurity and civilian discontent. The news of several army officers’ arrests has sent shockwaves through the armed forces. Reports suggest that soldiers are now enveloped in an atmosphere…

The interconnected world of geopolitics sees alliances shift like desert sands under the Sahel sun. This week heralds a significant move as foreign ministers from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger are making their way to Moscow, a decision that resonates beyond its political intent. These nations, bound by the chains of recent history and military governance, have chosen a path divergent from their traditional ties, reaching out to Russia in what can only be described as a poignant pivot in international relations. Such a…

A significant milestone has been reached in Burkina Faso with the inauguration of a novel cement plant named Société Industrielle Sino Burkina de Ciments SA, or CISINOB SA. Nestled in the heart of Laongo within the Plateau-Central region, this complex exemplifies progress and promise. Why does this matter? With an impressive daily production capability of 2,000 tonnes, the plant is set to become a pivotal player in job creation, particularly for the nation's youth. Imagine hundreds of lives…

In recent developments, the military governments of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso have made significant announcements regarding their international affiliations. Each country has formally declared its withdrawal from the International Organisation of Francophonie (OIF), following their earlier exits from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), a transition that took place in January of this year. Such strategic moves raise questions about the broader implications for regional stability and international…

At a recent press gathering, following a pivotal meeting, former Ghanaian President John Mahama brought to light some crucial issues surrounding regional integration. He emphasized the thoughtful deliberations focused on the African Economic Community (AEC) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). In an era where global connections are paramount, how can these regional bodies enhance their roles? "I have gained a fresh…

Captain Ibrahim Traoré ascended to the helm of Burkina Faso in September 2022, following a significant coup that unseated Lieutenant Colonel Paul Henri Damiba. Ironically, Damiba had only recently orchestrated his own coup against former president Roch Marc Kaboré earlier that same year. Such a rapid succession of leadership changes paints a vivid picture of the political turbulence enveloping the nation. Since Traoré’s rise, he has garnered considerable admiration for his impassioned anti-colonial declarations. His sharp…

In a bold proclamation, the Sahel nations have unveiled their exit strategy from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), set to take effect in 2024. The catalyst for this decision? A chorus of criticism aimed at ECOWAS for allegedly being puppeteered by former colonial powers—a sentiment that resonates deeply in regions still grappling with the legacies of colonialism. To counter this narrative, the military regimes of these countries have unified under the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), announcing an…

Burkina Faso is currently in talks about potentially bringing back the death penalty, a practice that was abolished back in 2018. Justice Minister Rodrigue Bayala recently mentioned that the subject is very much on the table. He noted that this topic "will be incorporated into the draft criminal code." It appears there might be additional changes on the horizon, aligning with the "vision and guidelines set forth by the head of state, Captain Ibrahim Traore," who took control of the nation following the coup in September…

Human Rights Watch has strongly called on the Burkinabe authorities to carry out a "swift and comprehensive" inquiry into the tragic massacre of civilians in Barsalogho, a town that recently endured a catastrophic event on August 24, 2024. This horrific attack was perpetrated by the Al-Qaeda-affiliated group, Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wa al-Muslimeen (JNIM), leading to the loss of over 130 lives, with countless others left injured. Carine Kaneza Nantulya, the Deputy Director for Africa at Human Rights Watch, articulated the…