Burkina Faso: H.E. Me Apollinaire Kyelèm de Tambela discusses one of the perceived underlying causes of terrorism
During the opening of the scientific seminar on national reconciliation and social cohesion, Prime Minister Me Apollinaire Kyelèm de Tambela shared his perspective on a topic that sparks many debates.
Invited to deliver the opening speech, the Head of Government preferred to address his audience composed of former ministers, traditional authorities, and researchers.
In a straightforward manner, Me Apollinaire Kyelèm de Tambela discussed one of the perceived underlying causes of terrorism.
« It is often said that poverty leads to terrorism. It may be true; it may be false. I don’t know if you are aware of the cost of an AK-47, but those who buy them for terrorists are not poor. So, it is not evident that it is directly linked to poverty», he stated.
According to the Prime Minister, if poverty were a main source of terrorism, we would have witnessed it long ago. In the 1970s, during the severe drought of 1973, Upper Volta (now Burkina Faso) experienced great hardship. People and livestock were dying due to lack of food and water.
« Our grandparents and parents lived in impoverished conditions, but they did not rebel against society. So, let us ask ourselves: is it really material poverty that is the source of terrorism, or is it spiritual poverty? » he questioned.
His Excellency, Me Apollinaire Kyelèm de Tambela did not hesitate to share his view. « I believe it is primarily spiritual poverty. Even those who use certain religions to commit terrorist acts do not truly understand that religion. They claim to know it, but they don’t. It is spiritual poverty that breeds terrorism. We must ensure that our country is enriched by our cultural and spiritual wealth, by our wisdom”, he explained.
Karim Fall
