A government delegation, led by President Ibrahim TRAORÉ, welcomed the first wave of Burkinabè citizens repatriated from Guinea on November 6, 2026, at the Stade Omnisport in Bobo-Dioulasso. The delegation included several ministers, such as Pr Adjima THIOMBIANO, Lieutenant-Colonel Passowindé Pélagie KABRÉ/KABORÉ, and Annick PINCKGOUGOUM/ZINGUE OUATTARA. They were accompanied by the Governor of the Guiriko Region, Mariama KONATE/GNANOU.
The repatriated citizens, totaling 3400 people, arrived in 48 cars from Mali, having been expelled from Guinea due to the suspension of artisanal gold exploitation. The Minister of Family and Solidarity expressed gratitude that the group had returned safely. The government members reassured the young people that they would be taken care of and that measures would be put in place to support their reintegration.
The government had set up a reception system, which included a security check, a health check to identify cases of illness or injury, and psycho-social support. The Minister of Solidarity explained that the system would also provide profiling, temporary accommodations, and assistance in finding family members. The government aims to provide solutions for the reintegration of the repatriated citizens, including education and vocational training.
The Minister of Solidarity and Family, Lieutenant-Colonel Passowindé Pélagie KABRÉ/KABORÉ, stated that the government was acting on instructions from President Ibrahim TRAORÉ to assist with the reception of the repatriated citizens. The government's efforts focus on providing immediate support and long-term solutions for the reintegration of the young people.
The repatriated citizens will be offered various opportunities for reintegration, including education and vocational training. The government plans to reopen schools for minors and provide opportunities for young adults to pursue higher education or vocational training. The Minister of Higher Education, Pr Adjima THIOMBIANO, emphasized that the government would work to provide support for the repatriated citizens.
According to the government, the reception and reintegration process will be carried out in phases. The first phase involves providing immediate support, including food, shelter, and medical care. The second phase will focus on longer-term solutions, such as education and vocational training, to help the repatriated citizens rebuild their lives.
The successful repatriation of the first wave of Burkinabè citizens from Guinea marks a significant step in the government's efforts to support its citizens abroad. The government's comprehensive approach to reception and reintegration aims to provide a safe and supportive environment for the repatriated citizens to rebuild their lives.
Key points
- The Burkinabè government welcomes 3400 citizens expelled from Guinea due to the suspension of artisanal gold exploitation.
- A government delegation, led by President Ibrahim TRAORÉ, provides support and reassurance to the repatriated citizens.
- The government offers various opportunities for reintegration, including education and vocational training.
