Burkina Faso launches major overhaul of decentralization policy
Prime Minister Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo opened a landmark three-day General Assembly on Decentralization on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, aiming to reshape local governance to better drive development and enhance territorial security.
In his opening address, the Prime Minister acknowledged that despite more than two decades of efforts, decentralization in Burkina Faso has fallen short of its goals.
Local governments remain financially weak, administratively dependent, and often hampered by partisan interests rather than guided by public good. Many citizens still feel excluded from decisions that directly impact their lives.
The forum is designed as a turning point a chance to fundamentally rethink the current model, empower municipalities and regions, and recenter citizens in the planning and execution of local projects.
Decentralization must evolve from an abstract policy into a practical tool for creating wealth, improving public services, and strengthening national cohesion.
This initiative is framed within the broader Progressive People’s Revolution led by President Captain Ibrahim Traoré, emphasizing that strong, transparent, and community-rooted governance is essential to lasting renewal.
It also forms part of the national security strategy, as a state that is firmly established at the local level is more resilient to threats.
Through these meetings, Burkina Faso aims to redefine decentralization—ridding it of its historic weaknesses and placing it squarely at the service of its people.
Olivier TOE
