The government of Burkina Faso has taken a significant step towards improving the working conditions of private security workers. On September 29, 2026, a collective convention was signed in Ouagadougou, establishing new social and professional rules for the sector. The convention, a result of years of negotiations, aims to enhance the lives of thousands of workers in the private security industry.
One of the key highlights of the new convention is the increase in the minimum wage for security guards. As announced by Minister of Public Services, Mathias Traoré, the base salary for guards will now be at least 57,000 FCFA. This move is expected to have a positive impact on the living standards of security personnel. The minister described the convention as an "essential instrument" for improving professional relations in the sector.
The convention goes beyond just salary increases. It also provides for the establishment of career development plans for workers in private security companies. Additionally, companies may offer allowances and benefits in kind, depending on their initiatives. This comprehensive approach aims to create a more structured professional framework, offering better prospects for workers and increased visibility for companies in the sector.
The new convention complements the existing Labor Code, introducing rules tailored to the specific realities of private security companies. According to Mathias Traoré, this will help improve working conditions, enhance the competitiveness of enterprises, and consolidate social peace. The signing of the document marks the end of a process that began in 2017, with several years of negotiations between stakeholders.
The trade unions have welcomed the convention as a significant achievement. El Hadj Inoussa Nana, Secretary-General of the Forces Ouvrières/Union Nationale des Syndicats (FO-UNS), expressed satisfaction with the outcome. He emphasized that the convention covers more than just wages, highlighting the importance of the new framework for workers in the sector.
The collective convention is seen as a crucial step towards establishing a more professional and equitable environment in the private security sector. With its focus on career development, remuneration, and benefits, the new framework is expected to have a lasting impact on the lives of thousands of workers. As the sector continues to evolve, this convention is poised to play a key role in shaping its future.
The implementation of the convention will be closely watched by stakeholders, including workers, employers, and government agencies. Its success will depend on the effective enforcement of its provisions and the commitment of all parties involved. Nevertheless, the signing of the convention marks a significant milestone in the efforts to improve the working conditions and prospects of private security workers in Burkina Faso.
Key points
- The minimum wage for private security guards in Burkina Faso has been increased to 57,000 FCFA.
- A new collective convention has been signed to establish better working conditions and career development plans for workers in the private security sector.
- The convention aims to improve professional relations, competitiveness, and social peace in the sector.
