IBRAHIM TRAORE: FROM MILITARY LEADER TO ECONOMIC REBUILDER OF BURKINA FASO
Since taking power in 2022, Captain Ibrahim Traore has embarked on a transformative journey aimed at reshaping Burkina Faso’s economic and infrastructural landscape. With a focus on self-reliance and strategic investments, Traore has channelled resources into multiple projects across various sectors, pumping millions into initiatives designed to reduce the country’s dependence on foreign aid and foster sustainable development.
1. Air Burkina Revamp: Recognising the importance of national connectivity, Traore has allocated substantial funds to revitalise Air Burkina, positioning it as a viable regional airline to boost domestic and international air travel.
2. Cashew Processing Plant: To stimulate the agricultural sector, Traore launched a $25 million cashew processing plant aimed at adding value to one of the country’s key cash crops and creating employment opportunities.
3. Post Bank of Burkina Faso: Traore’s administration has invested $45 million in modernising the Post Bank, expanding its services to rural areas to promote financial inclusion.
4. Tomato Processing Factories: With a $30 million budget, three tomato processing factories have been established to tackle post-harvest losses and enhance local food production.
5. Cotton Processing Factory: In a move to reclaim Burkina Faso’s cotton industry, Traore invested $50 million in a state-of-the-art processing facility to retain more profits locally.
6. Bobo-Dioulasso Airport Expansion: A $100 million upgrade to the Bobo-Dioulasso Airport is underway, transforming it into a regional transport hub to facilitate trade and commerce.
7. Agricultural Empowerment: With over $150 million allocated to agricultural mechanisation and empowerment, Traore aims to revolutionise food production and reduce the country’s dependency on imports.
8. Ouagadougou-Donsin Airport: Traore has earmarked $200 million for the construction of the Ouagadougou-Donsin Airport, positioning it as a strategic international gateway.
9. University Center of Pala: The education sector has received a $60 million boost with the establishment of the University Center of Pala, aimed at increasing access to higher education.
10. Housing Development: In a bid to tackle the housing crisis, Traore’s administration is investing $120 million in affordable housing projects targeting low-income earners.
11. Gold Permit Deal with Russia: Burkina Faso has struck a lucrative gold permit deal with Russia, bringing in an estimated $500 million in revenue to boost economic stability.
12. Road Constructions: Over $300 million has been committed to road construction and maintenance to connect rural and urban areas more effectively.
13. Bobo-Dioulasso Dry Port: The development of a dry port in Bobo-Dioulasso at a cost of $90 million is expected to enhance Burkina Faso’s position as a regional trade hub.
14. Education Investments: Traore’s government has allocated $75 million to improve school infrastructure, provide learning materials, and train teachers.
15. Hydrocarbon Depot: A $40 million hydrocarbon depot project is in the pipeline to ensure fuel security and stabilise prices.
16. Nuclear Power Plant Project: Traore’s most ambitious project yet is a $500 million nuclear power plant aimed at addressing the country’s chronic energy shortages.
17. Thomas Sankara Mausoleum: The construction of a $15 million mausoleum to honour revolutionary leader Thomas Sankara is both a cultural and tourism-driven initiative.
18. Mega Geriatric Hospital: A $70 million mega geriatric hospital is being constructed to cater to the country’s ageing population.
19. Mega Cement Factory: To reduce cement imports, Traore has commissioned a $110 million mega cement factory expected to meet domestic and regional demand.
20. Indigenous Electric Vehicles (Itaoua/SAHEL): The production of electric vehicles under the Itaoua and SAHEL brands has received a $40 million investment, promoting green energy solutions.
21. FASO RAIL: A $250 million rail project, dubbed FASO RAIL, is being developed to connect key cities and facilitate the transportation of goods and people.
22. Water Projects: Traore has prioritised water security, investing $130 million in drilling boreholes, constructing dams, and setting up water treatment plants.
23. August 4 Stadium Renovation: The iconic August 4 Stadium is undergoing a $35 million facelift to meet international standards and host major sporting events.
24. Gold Refinery: To maximise the value of Burkina Faso’s gold resources, Traore has greenlit a $75 million gold refinery project aimed at processing raw gold locally.
Captain Ibrahim Traore’s administration is leaving no stone unturned in its bid to transform Burkina Faso into a self-reliant, economically vibrant nation. While critics question the feasibility of such extensive spending, Traore insists that each project is a strategic step towards economic independence, job creation, and sustainable development.
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