Burkina Faso: A strategic reform to support spatial planning
In a context of national refoundation marked by the will to build a stronger, more organized Burkina Faso that is more focused on the real needs of the people, the government has adopted a decree modernizing the definition of a city. This strategic decision represents an important step in the construction of a harmonious territory capable of supporting citizens’ legitimate aspirations for balanced and sustainable development.
From now on, a locality will be recognized as a city when it has at least 15,000 inhabitants, possesses essential infrastructure such as drinking water, electricity, and transport networks, and primarily engages in economic activities from the secondary and tertiary sectors.
Three categories of cities are also established: metropolitan cities, medium-sized cities, and small towns.
For many years, urban expansion often developed without a framework sufficiently adapted to local realities.
This reform provides a clear response to this situation by establishing precise criteria for identifying urban centers and better directing public investments.
Like a farmer who carefully prepares his field before sowing, the state is laying the foundations for coherent urban development.
Better identification of cities will strengthen infrastructure planning, facilitate access to essential services, and improve the living conditions of the population.
This new classification also offers a fairer view of the national territory. Each city category will benefit from guidelines tailored to its level of development, thereby promoting balanced growth among the different regions of the country.
The success of this vision depends on the commitment of all stakeholders: the population, local authorities, the African diaspora, and international partners who respect state sovereignty.
This reform opens a new chapter in the organization of the national territory and in the march toward controlled, sustainable development.
Maurice K.ZONGO
