The agency has provided assistance to more than one million people affected by crises this year through vital funding from the United States.
The humanitarian response comes at a critical time for the West African country, which is grappling with instability, security challenges and humanitarian needs.
According to news reports, more than half of Burkina Faso is now operating outside of government control following the military takeover in 2022.
Burkina Faso’s human rights situation deteriorated significantly in 2023, amid deadly attacks by Islamist armed groups on civilians. Both military forces and pro-government militias were found to have committed abuses during counterinsurgency operations.
More broadly, the Sahel region has been threatened for years by the rapid rise of armed groups, according to UN humanitarian reports. Starting in northern Mali, jihadist-linked rebels have pushed south, bringing lawlessness to northern Burkina Faso and western Niger, and threatening the stability of neighboring countries .
‘Contribution record’
WFP and the U.S. Bureau for International Development Humanitarian Affairs (BHA) successfully delivered critical humanitarian aid to more than one million people affected by the crisis in Burkina Faso.
The US government has provided $124 million to support WFP’s operations in the West African country in 2024, representing 70% of total contributions to the agency’s operations in the country.
WFP provides life-saving humanitarian assistance to people in Burkina Faso.
Humanitarian aviation services
The aid response has been significantly enhanced by the United Nations Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS), Managed by WFP, this has proven crucial in reaching isolated communities.
From January to September 2024, nearly 15,000 humanitarian workers and more than 500 tons of relief goods were delivered through UNHAS.
“This unwavering support is instrumental in helping WFP reach people in need in hard-to-reach places in Burkina Faso,” said Sory Ouane, WFP Country Director and Representative in Burkina Faso. .
This aid comes at a critical time, as recent data from the “Cadre Harmonisé” Food Security analysis shows that an estimated 2.7 million people in Burkina Faso, need immediate food assistance in The lean season from June to August is challenging.
‘The challenge is huge’
Mr. Ouane emphasized that although much progress has been achieved, significant challenges still exist. “With the continued support of our partners, including the BHA, we can ensure that the most vulnerable – especially displaced women and children – receive support,” he said. necessary support to survive and rebuild their lives.”
Mr. Ouane affirmed that WFP “will continue to support communities affected by the crisis, ensuring that no one is left behind.”
