The Ministry of Health in Burkina Faso has announced the launch of the National Health Communication Month in local languages, which will run from November 2 to 30, 2026. This initiative aims to bring health information closer to the population, promoting prevention and encouraging healthy behaviors. The campaign will cover all regions of Burkina Faso, using local languages to facilitate understanding and adoption of health information.

The Minister of Health, Dr. Robert Lucien Jean-Claude Kargougou, emphasized the importance of accessible and adapted communication in the health sector. He noted that a well-informed population can protect themselves from health risks and make informed decisions. During the campaign, partner radio stations will broadcast interactive programs, expert interventions, and information capsules. The first week will focus on the achievements and reforms in the health sector since September 2022.

The campaign will address specific health issues in different regions, with the participation of health professionals and consideration of audience concerns. Dr. Kargougou stressed that building health infrastructure alone is not enough to improve health outcomes; effective communication is also crucial. He highlighted that about 12% of the state's budget is allocated to the health sector, demonstrating the government's commitment to healthcare.

The Minister invited media professionals to fully engage in this initiative, promoting reliable and accessible health information to all segments of the population. The campaign's goal is to reach a maximum number of people with awareness messages, promoting healthy behaviors and improving health outcomes. By using local languages, the campaign aims to overcome language barriers and ensure that health information is accessible to everyone.

The campaign will feature a special program in the Mooré language on Radio Burkina on October 31, 2026, at 10 am, which will be relayed by partner radio stations. This program will focus on the achievements and reforms in the health sector, providing an opportunity for citizens to engage with health officials and learn more about health issues.

Dr. Kargougou emphasized that the construction of health infrastructure must be accompanied by effective communication to inform, sensitize, and prevent health risks. He encouraged media professionals to contribute to the dissemination of reliable health information, which is essential for promoting healthy behaviors and improving health outcomes.

The National Health Communication Month in local languages is a significant initiative aimed at promoting health communication and improving health outcomes in Burkina Faso. By engaging media professionals and using local languages, the campaign aims to reach a wider audience and promote healthy behaviors, ultimately contributing to a healthier population.

Key points

  • The campaign aims to reach a maximum number of people with awareness messages, promoting healthy behaviors and improving health outcomes.
  • The Minister of Health emphasized the importance of accessible and adapted communication in the health sector.
  • The campaign will address specific health issues in different regions, with the participation of health professionals and consideration of audience concerns.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.