Key Achievements of President Ibrahim Traore in Two Years of Leadership

Since taking office, Burkina Faso's 36-year-old President Ibrahim Traore has made significant strides in shaping the country's future. Here are the key achievements that have defined his leadership:

1. First Gold Refinery in Burkina Faso

   • Burkina Faso built its first-ever gold refinery in 2024, extracting 93kg of gold from 142 tonnes of mining residues. This marks a critical step in utilizing the country’s natural resources to drive economic growth.

2. Nationalization of Gold Mines

   • Traore's government successfully nationalized two major gold mines for $80 million, resolving a legal dispute between two companies. This was a major financial achievement, securing the mines at a fraction of the initially requested price of $300 million.

3. Construction of the First Tomato Processing Plant

   • The establishment of Burkina Faso’s first tomato processing plant highlights the government’s push for local food processing and agricultural diversification, strengthening the economy and creating jobs.
     
     
     

4. Launch of the Postal Bank of Burkina Faso

   • Aimed at improving the country’s banking infrastructure, the government launched the Postal Bank of Burkina Faso with a capital of $25.1 million, as well as the Treasury Deposit Bank.
     
     
     

5. Banning Colonial-Era Wigs for Judges

   • In a symbolic move to break away from colonial influences, President Traore banned the use of colonial-era wigs by judges, reinforcing Burkina Faso's push for greater cultural independence.

6. Expulsion of French Troops

   • President Traore expelled French troops from Burkina Faso, signaling a desire for greater sovereignty and autonomy in military and foreign relations.

7. Support for Agriculture

   • To boost local agriculture, the government provided extensive support, including 400 tractors, 953 motorcycles, 710 motor pumps, 10,000 tonnes of fish food, 68,964 tonnes of fertilizer, and 10,000 liters of phytosanitary products.
     
     
     

8. Expansion of Bobo-Dioulasso Airport

   • The approval for expanding the Bobo-Dioulasso Airport is aimed at improving connectivity and stimulating economic growth through better transportation infrastructure.

9. Establishment of National Support Center for Artisanal Cotton Processing

   • The creation of the country’s first National Support Center for Artisanal Cotton Processing supports small-scale cotton producers, further diversifying Burkina Faso’s agricultural base and enhancing livelihoods.

These achievements showcase President Ibrahim Traore’s vision for a self-reliant and economically diversified Burkina Faso, making bold moves in key sectors like mining, agriculture, finance, and infrastructure.