Hassan Magulumali
In just two years as Burkina Faso’s leader, President Ibrahim Traoré has spearheaded bold reforms, driving economic growth and championing national sovereignty. His administration has prioritized economic self-reliance, infrastructure development, and agricultural productivity while rejecting foreign dependency.
Economic Growth and Reforms
Burkina Faso’s GDP rose from $18.8 billion in 2022 to $22.1 billion in 2024 under Traoré’s leadership. Rejecting loans from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, he declared, “Africa does not need the World Bank, the IMF, Europe, or America.” Traoré reduced ministerial and parliamentary salaries by 30% while increasing civil servants’ pay by 50%. He also settled the nation’s domestic debts, ensuring financial stability.
Industrial and Agricultural Development
Traoré’s tenure has seen a surge in local production. He established Burkina Faso’s first two tomato processing plants and a second cotton processing facility, aiding farmers and reducing reliance on exports. Additionally, he inaugurated a state-of-the-art gold mine in 2023 and banned the export of unrefined gold to Europe, ensuring more value-added processing within Burkina Faso.
To bolster agriculture, his government distributed over 400 tractors, 239 plows, 710 motor pumps, and 714 motorcycles. Improved access to high-quality seeds and agricultural inputs boosted yields, with tomato harvests increasing from 315,000 tons in 2022 to 360,000 tons in 2024. Sorghum and rice production also saw significant growth, with sorghum rising from 907,000 tons to 1 million tons and rice from 280,000 tons to 326,000 tons.
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Infrastructure and Cultural Revival
Traoré has prioritized infrastructure projects, including road upgrades and the construction of a new airport, the Ouagadougou-Donsin Airport, slated for completion in 2025. In a cultural shift, he banned British-style wigs and robes in courts, replacing them with traditional Burkinabé attire.
Independence from Foreign Influence
Traoré expelled French troops, banned French media, and halted French military operations, signaling a firm stance against foreign interference.
President Ibrahim Traoré’s robust policies have laid the foundation for a self-reliant Burkina Faso, inspiring hope for a brighter future.
