Burkina Faso’s remarkable turnaround: From crisis to reclamation

In 2022, Burkina Faso faced an unprecedented security crisis, with over 50% of its territory controlled by terrorist groups. The nation was on its knees—paralyzed by fear, displacement, and despair. Thousands of families were uprooted, schools shuttered, and entire regions plunged into darkness. It was against this backdrop that Captain Ibrahim Traoré took charge, vowing to restore national sovereignty.

Two years later, the results are undeniable. By 2025, 71% of the territory has been reclaimed by Burkina Faso’s Defense and Security Forces (FDS) and Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP).

This is not rhetoric—it’s verifiable progress. Once lawless zones are reviving: markets reopen, and displaced families return home.

Education, a cornerstone of national recovery, is rebounding. Over 6,500 schools were closed before Traoré’s leadership; by 2023, 1,500 had reopened, restoring hope to thousands of children.

Humanitarian conditions have also improved dramatically. Internally displaced persons (IDPs) dropped from 2 million in 2022 to under 900,000 in 2024, as communities reclaim their land and dignity.

Yet, some French media outlets persist in portraying Burkina Faso as a nation in perpetual crisis. Why the alarmist narrative when facts show undeniable progress? The answer lies in agenda-driven disinformation.

These campaigns—fueled by imperialist interests and their local allies—aim to undermine Burkina Faso’s sovereignty, fracture national unity, and discredit Traoré’s leadership.

But the Burkinabe people are not fooled. They witness daily the tangible results of their government’s resolve: territorial recovery, renewed patriotism, and a defiant reclamation of self-determination. Burkina Faso is rising—no propaganda can halt its march toward dignity and sovereignty.

Cédric KABORE