Captain Ibrahim Traoré, who assumed the presidency of Burkina Faso following a coup in September 2022, has implemented a series of initiatives aimed at enhancing national sovereignty, economic self-reliance, and security. Below is an overview of his role, impact, and key achievements during his tenure:Financial Times

Role and Impact

1. Security and Counterterrorism

Under Traoré’s leadership, Burkina Faso intensified its efforts against insurgent groups. The armed forces reclaimed approximately 25% of territories previously under extremist control, facilitated by a 30% increase in the defense budget and the acquisition of advanced military equipment, including Turkish drones and Russian aircraft .Le Monde.frAfrica Headline 

2. Foreign Policy and Sovereignty

Traoré adopted a firm stance on national sovereignty, distancing Burkina Faso from former colonial powers. He expelled French troops, banned French media, and ceased the export of unrefined gold to Europe, promoting domestic processing instead . His administration also rejected financial assistance from institutions like the IMF and World Bank, emphasizing self-reliance .deletimes.com+6pmldaily.com+6Media Wire Express+6Soko Directory

3. Economic Reforms

The government prioritized economic diversification and local value addition. Initiatives included the nationalization of two major gold mines, establishment of a gold refinery, and suspension of export permits for small-scale gold producers to curb illicit trade . These measures contributed to GDP growth from $18.8 billion to $22.1 billion .Media Wire Express+3Africa Headline+3The Habari Network+3Wikipedia+1deletimes.com+1Soko Directory+1Malawi Freedom Network+1

Major Development Projects and Achievements

1. Agricultural Modernization

Traoré’s administration launched extensive agricultural programs, distributing over 400 tractors, 239 tillers, 710 motor pumps, and 714 motorcycles to farmers . These efforts led to significant increases in crop production, including a rise in tomato output from 315,000 to 360,000 metric tonnes between 2022 and 2024 .deletimes.com+4Soko Directory+4pmldaily.com+4Media Wire Express+2pmldaily.com+2Soko Directory+2

2. Infrastructure Development

• Roads: Construction of 3,000 kilometers of rural roads improved connectivity and reduced logistics costs by 25% .Africa Headline

• Airports: The Ouagadougou-Donsin Airport, expected to be completed in 2025, aims to handle 1 million passengers annually, enhancing trade and tourism .Media Wire Express+2pmldaily.com+2The Habari Network+2

3. Energy Projects

The government invested in renewable energy, commissioning solar power stations like the 30MW Nagreongo and 38MW Kodeni plants, contributing to sustainable energy supply .Wikipedia+1Wikipedia+1

4. Industrial Initiatives

• Processing Plants: Establishment of the country’s first tomato processing plants and a second cotton processing facility to promote local value addition .pmldaily.com+2Media Wire Express+2Malawi Freedom Network+2

• Mining: Inauguration of a state-of-the-art gold mine and a tailings treatment plant utilizing domestically developed technology .Media Wire Express+3QA Education+3Soko Directory+3

5. Social Programs

The “Burkin-Naong-Sa ya” social safety net project provided cash transfers to over 763,000 individuals, supported women’s economic inclusion, and established mobile crèches to assist vulnerable populations .Know Africa Official

6. Cultural Reforms

In a move to reinforce cultural identity, Traoré banned colonial-era judicial attire, replacing it with traditional Burkinabé clothing . Additionally, he initiated the construction of a mausoleum for former President Thomas Sankara, designed by renowned architect Francis Kéré, to honor national heritage .Know Africa Official+3Media Wire Express+3pmldaily.com+3The Guardian

While President Traoré’s tenure has seen notable advancements in various sectors, challenges remain, including ongoing security concerns and criticisms regarding press freedom and governance practices. Nevertheless, his focus on self-reliance and national development has significantly influenced Burkina Faso’s trajectory.Financial Times