Burkina Faso

Since 1996, Luxembourg’s cooperation with Burkina Faso has taken shape through key initiatives, such as the creation of the Ouagadougou Artisanal Village and the active engagement of numerous Luxembourgish NGOs. This collaboration led to the signing of a general cooperation agreement in 1999, marking the beginning of a structured partnership between the two countries. In 2003, LuxDev strengthened its presence by opening a country office in Burkina Faso.

Initially focused on handicrafts, healthcare, literacy, and environmental initiatives, LuxDev’s support has evolved into a more structured approach, aligning with national priorities and emphasising environmental sustainability, education, and vocational training.

In recent years, the Agency has shifted to a project-based approach, directly targeting end beneficiaries, particularly children and young job seekers.

Burkina Faso faces numerous development challenges. 

A significant portion of the population lives in poverty, exacerbated by rapid population growth, urban expansion, and increasing pressure on natural ecosystems amid climate change. 

Persistent insecurity, particularly in regions affected by terrorism, destabilises the socio-economic fabric, disrupts agriculture, and forces mass displacement of people toward major regional and national centres.

Access to quality education remains limited, especially in rural areas, while youth unemployment and underemployment present significant issues. Insufficient social infrastructure in rural areas and urban peripheries further slows development and strains existing services.

Moreover, sustainable management of natural resources – critical for a country reliant on agriculture – is under threat due to climate change, worsening land degradation and water scarcity.

Addressing these challenges requires strengthening basic social infrastructure, promoting education and vocational training, developing climate-resilient agricultural solutions, and enhancing local governance to improve living conditions and reduce poverty.

LuxDev’s interventions align with national development goals, addressing key challenges and fostering inclusive, sustainable growth.