Burkina Faso’s Prime Minister meets West African media regulators amid efforts to strengthen audiovisual regulation

Ouagadougou, February 24, 2025 – Burkina Faso’s Prime Minister, Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo, welcomed a delegation from the platform of audiovisual regulators of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA) and Guinea.

The high-level meeting, also attended by Louis Modeste Ouédraogo, President of Burkina Faso’s Superior Council of Communication (CSC), focused on key issues related to media regulation across the region.

Boubacar Yacine Diallo, President of Guinea’s High Authority for Communication and Vice President of the platform, expressed gratitude for the warm reception.

He also acknowledged the support of Burkina Faso’s leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, in facilitating the international symposium on audiovisual regulation, taking place in Ouagadougou from February 24 to 25.

« We sincerely thank the Prime Minister and extend our appreciation to President Traoré for his commitment to this initiative, » Diallo stated.

A major topic of discussion was the growing challenge of audiovisual content piracy within the UEMOA region.

The illicit distribution of copyrighted material is causing significant financial losses for both content creators and governments.

In response, Prime Minister Ouédraogo emphasized the urgency of tackling this issue, urging regulators to propose concrete, experience-based solutions.

Strengthening digital regulation and protecting audiovisual productions, he noted, are essential for the sustainable development of the cultural industry.

Beyond the official discussions, the delegation also attended the opening ceremony of the 29th edition of the Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou (FESPACO).

As a cornerstone of African cinematic excellence, the festival left a lasting impression on the regulators. « Being part of FESPACO’s opening was an honor and a source of inspiration. This festival reflects the richness of our cultural heritage and serves as a crucial platform for promoting and safeguarding African audiovisual works, » Diallo remarked.

The visit further solidified cooperation between media regulators across the UEMOA region and Guinea while underscoring Burkina Faso’s dedication to fostering a dynamic and well-protected audiovisual industry.