Burkina Faso’s Military Leader Prioritizes Economic Autonomy

Burkina Faso’s military leader is shifting focus towards economic self-sufficiency, aiming to reduce reliance on foreign aid. Learn more about his vision for the country’s future.

Captain Ibrahim Traoré, who has been at the helm of Burkina Faso since orchestrating a coup in 2022, is prioritizing economic self-sufficiency to decrease dependency on foreign aid and capitalize on domestic resources.

This strategy, in coordination with the Alliance of Sahel States along with Mali and Niger, demonstrates an effort to achieve economic sovereignty.

According to Hamidou Sawadogo, a professor of monetary and financial economics at the University Joseph KI-Zerbo, “This model focuses on utilizing internal resources. It has allowed the head of state and his government to prioritize agriculture. However, another crucial element is industrializing our production.”

Agriculture has become central to economic priorities, receiving substantial funding and enhancing production capabilities. As a result, nearly six million tonnes of cereal are expected to be harvested in 2024.

Nevertheless, due to the country’s ongoing decade-long struggle against Islamist insurgents, securing the territory remains essential.

Sawadogo suggests prioritizing additional investment in territorial defense to ensure survival. Once that is achieved, the focus can shift to further developing our internal growth model.

In the interim, it’s evident that the new policies have made a significant impact. Economic growth is on an upward trajectory, with GDP expected to accelerate by 3.7 percent in 2024.

Nevertheless, given the ongoing security and structural challenges, Burkina Faso needs to adjust its model to align with the realities of its development.