The 2nd edition of the Journées d'engagement patriotique et de participation citoyenne (JEPPC) kicked off in Burkina Faso on October 2, 2026, and will run until October 16. The event's theme, "Produisons burkinabè, consommons burkinabè!" encourages citizens to prioritize local production and consumption. On October 5, 2026, the national flag-raising ceremony was presided over by Minister of Energy, Mines, and Careers, Yacouba Zabré Gouba, and Minister of Commerce, Serge Gniagnoden Pooda.
During the ceremony, Minister Yacouba Zabré Gouba delivered a message from President Ibrahim Traoré. The President emphasized the importance of patriotism through consumption, urging Burkinabè citizens to make their purchasing decisions an act of sovereignty. He introduced the new slogan, "Tous pour le Made in Burkina: Faisons de chaque achat un acte de souveraineté," calling on citizens to prioritize local products.
President Traoré highlighted the need for increased production, quality work, and efficient use of resources. He noted that the country has the potential to produce more, with over seven million tons of cereals produced on developed and supported land. However, he acknowledged that there are still challenges, including a shortage of equipment, seeds, and fertilizers, which hinder optimal production.
The President also emphasized the importance of transforming local products to increase their value. He cited examples of products such as cotton, karité, sesame, mango, leather, and livestock that require further processing. According to him, failing to transform these products results in exporting raw materials and importing finished goods, which deprives the country of significant revenue.
In addition to production and transformation, President Traoré encouraged citizens to prioritize local consumption. He lamented the preference for imported goods, such as rice and industrial broth, over local products like rice from Bagré, Sourou, and Samendeni. He urged citizens to view consuming local products as an act of patriotism and pride.
The President's message also targeted the youth and diaspora, urging them to become ambassadors of "Made in Burkina" products worldwide. He encouraged them to promote local products, which can open up new markets for fellow Burkinabè citizens. By doing so, citizens can contribute to the country's economic growth and sovereignty.
The JEPPC 2026 event aims to promote patriotism and citizen participation in Burkina Faso. Through initiatives like this, the government hopes to encourage citizens to take ownership of their country's development and prioritize local production and consumption. By working together, Burkinabè citizens can contribute to building a stronger, more self-sufficient economy.
Key points
- President Ibrahim Traoré emphasizes the importance of patriotism through consumption, urging citizens to prioritize local products.
- The government aims to increase production, transformation, and consumption of local products to boost the country's economy and sovereignty.
- The youth and diaspora are encouraged to become ambassadors of "Made in Burkina" products worldwide.
