Burkina Faso: Authorities take a healthy pragmatic approach to economic and security challenges
In a particularly challenging regional and national context—marked by security instability, a complex humanitarian crisis, and the withdrawal of ECOWAS—the Burkinabe authorities have demonstrated remarkable pragmatism in public governance. This is highlighted in the 2025 Country Report published by the African Development Bank (AfDB), which outlines Burkina Faso’s macroeconomic performance and outlook.
Despite strong headwinds, the Burkinabe economy recorded an estimated growth of 5% in 2024, compared to 3.0% in 2023. This rebound is attributed to improved management in key sectors such as agriculture, financial services, and trade—engines of the recovery. The 2024/2025 agricultural season saw significant growth, thanks to favorable rainfall and consistent government support backed by technical and financial partners.
The extractive sector, especially gold, remains a cornerstone of the national economy, accounting for over 75% of export revenues, although production continues to be hampered by insecurity.
On the security front, government efforts led to the recovery of 71% of national territory by the end of 2024, up from just 40% in 2022. This redeployment enabled the return of more than one million internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their home areas, out of the 2.06 million recorded in March 2023.
On the demand side, the AfDB notes that final consumption and investment supported growth. GDP per capita increased by 2.7%, indicating a slight improvement in living standards despite the difficult environment.
The AfDB report emphasizes the need to consolidate gains while addressing social vulnerabilities, in order to ensure more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient growth. This assessment reflects the pragmatic and targeted governance of the Burkinabe authorities, who, despite multiple challenges, are working to stabilize and sustainably revive the national economy.
