Burkina Faso : Strengthening solidarity towards internally displaced women
The security crisis in Burkina Faso has forced many people, particularly women, to flee their homes and seek refuge in safer areas. The situation of internally displaced women is concerning, marked by significant challenges affecting their security, health, and dignity.
These women face multiple daily difficulties, including access to clean water, food, healthcare, and justice. They are also exposed to violence and abuse.
According to a survey by Médecins Sans Frontières, nearly 70% of internally displaced women have been victims of sexual violence, and approximately 60% have limited access to basic health services, according to the UNHCR.
Furthermore, over 40% of households headed by internally displaced women are experiencing severe food insecurity, according to the World Food Programme.
Despite these challenges, women like Aïssatou have found refuge in camps and have established microenterprises, demonstrating their resilience. Around 35% of microenterprises in displacement areas are run by women, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
In response to this crisis, collective mobilization is underway to support these women. Initiatives aim to strengthen their productive capacities, particularly through vocational and entrepreneurial training.
These actions, carried out in Kaya and other locations in Burkina Faso, are essential to restore hope to internally displaced women and strengthen their sense of belonging to a community. It is crucial to multiply efforts in this direction and support these initiatives with determination.
