On October 14, 2026, Burkinabé Foreign Minister Karamoko Jean Marie TRAORE and his Dutch counterpart's Director of Social Development, Peter-Dereck HOF, met to discuss strengthening cooperation between the two nations. The meeting was attended by Burkina Faso's Minister Delegate, Bêbgnasgnan Stella Eldine KABRE/KABORE, and Netherlands' Charge d'affaires, Dr. Margret VERWIJIK. This marked HOF's first visit to Burkina Faso, aimed at understanding the country's current context and development cooperation prospects.
During the meeting, HOF stated that his visit sought to provide him with firsthand information on Burkina Faso's current situation, allowing him to form his own opinion on the country's management and development cooperation with the Netherlands. He also aimed to listen to Burkinabé authorities on national priorities, with the goal of reorienting Dutch interventions in the country. The Netherlands has been a development partner to Burkina Faso for over six decades.
Minister TRAORE briefed HOF on the context preceding the current regime and the reforms implemented, which have yielded results in various sectors such as security, humanitarian aid, health, education, and infrastructure. TRAORE emphasized that Burkina Faso's foreign policy focuses on asserting sovereignty and diversifying partnerships, with the country now taking the lead in defining programs and evaluation mechanisms.
TRAORE acknowledged the need to strengthen development cooperation with partners through a proximity approach and dialogue. He welcomed the Netherlands' continued engagement with Burkina Faso in this type of partnership. The two nations' cooperation covers sectors like health, agriculture, water management, education, youth entrepreneurship, and women's economic empowerment.
As part of his visit, HOF toured a pisciculture project at the Ziga dam, supported by a Dutch NGO, which aims to promote women's economic autonomy. The project is an example of the long-standing cooperation between Burkina Faso and the Netherlands.
The Netherlands' development cooperation with Burkina Faso has been ongoing for over 60 years, with a focus on sustainable development and poverty reduction. The two countries have a history of collaboration in various sectors, and their partnership is expected to continue.
The meeting between TRAORE and HOF demonstrates the commitment of both countries to strengthening their development cooperation. The discussions are expected to lead to more effective and targeted interventions by the Netherlands in Burkina Faso, aligned with the country's priorities and needs.
Key points
- Strengthening development cooperation between Burkina Faso and the Netherlands.
