The United States government has supported the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) with $124 million for its humanitarian operations in Burkina Faso.
In a report released on Tuesday, the WFP said it partnered with the U.S. International Development Bureau of Humanitarian Affairs (BHA) to deliver vital humanitarian assistance to over one million crisis affected people in Burkina Faso.
The U.S. government’s $124 million support to WFP’s operations in the West African nation during 2024, represents 70 percent of all contributions to the UN agency’s work in the country.
Between January and September 2024, nearly 15,000 humanitarian workers and over 500 tonnes of relief supplies were delivered with the U.S. support.
“This unwavering support has been instrumental in enabling WFP to reach populations in need in Burkina Faso’s hard to-reach locations,” Sory Ouane, WFP’s Country Director and Representative in Burkina Faso, said.
The aid comes at a crucial time, as recent data from “Cadre Harmonisé” Food Security analysis, reveals an estimated 2.7 million people in Burkina Faso, required immediate food assistance during the challenging June to August lean season.
Mr Ouane emphasised that while progress had been made, significant challenges remained.
“With the continued support of our partners, including BHA, we can ensure that the most vulnerable – particularly displaced women and children – receive the assistance they need to survive and rebuild their lives,” Mr Ouane said.
The agency has provided assistance to more than one million crises affected people so far this year through crucial funding from the United States.
The humanitarian response comes at a critical time for Burkina Faso, which has been grappling with instability, security challenges and humanitarian needs.
According to news reports, more than half of Burkina Faso currently operates beyond government control following a military takeover in 2022.
Burkina Faso’s human rights situation deteriorated significantly in 2023, amid deadly attacks by Islamist armed groups against civilians.
Both military forces and pro-government militia were found to have committed abuses during counterinsurgency operations.
More widely, according to UN humanitarian reports, the Sahel region has been threatened for years by a proliferation of armed groups.
Beginning in northern Mali, jihadist-linked insurgents pushed south, bringing lawlessness to northern Burkina Faso and western Niger, while also threatening the stability of neighbouring countries.
(Daily Patriot/NAN)
