By Damilola Adeleke

Burkina Faso’s President, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, has reportedly rejected an offer from Saudi Arabia to construct 200 mosques in the country. Instead, he urged the kingdom to invest in essential infrastructure projects, such as schools, hospitals, and job-creating initiatives, that would directly benefit the people of Burkina Faso.

Traoré emphasized that the nation already has sufficient mosques, many of which are underutilized. He underscored the pressing need for developmental programs that would enhance national self-sufficiency and drive progress in critical sectors.

Since assuming office, the president has focused on strengthening public infrastructure and ensuring long-term sustainability. His administration has introduced reforms to enhance project management, with the Ministry of Housing overseeing all public construction phases while maintaining strict environmental and safety standards.

Additionally, Traoré has launched initiatives to address housing shortages, particularly for internally displaced persons affected by security crises. In July 2024, he unveiled a project to build 1,000 social housing units as part of his commitment to ensuring adequate shelter for all Burkinabè by 2030.

In his drive for economic self-reliance, the president has also turned down financial aid from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), advocating instead for mobilizing domestic resources. His administration prioritizes agriculture, local industries, and sustainable development as key pillars of economic resilience.

By rejecting the Saudi proposal, Traoré reaffirmed his commitment to a development strategy centered on education, healthcare, and economic empowerment—key elements he believes are crucial for the nation’s future.