On October 30, 2026, the Prime Minister of Burkina Faso, Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo, met with Burkinabè living in Russia in Moscow. The meeting took place during his stay for the 2026 Russia-Africa summit. At the beginning of the encounter, the national anthem, "Ditanyé," was sung by all participants. Gaston Millogo, president of the High Council of Burkinabè in Russia, welcomed his compatriots and expressed pride in the efforts of the Burkinabè government to regain sovereignty and develop the country.
Gaston Millogo stated that the Burkinabè community in Russia is a reflection of resilience and remains committed to contributing to the development of a prosperous and respected Burkina Faso. He mentioned that the community has contributed to the installation of a water pump system in Tobinkora and Dorokui. Millogo expressed hope that the resolutions of the Russia-Africa summit will open new perspectives for Africa and Burkina Faso. The Burkinabè community in Russia has been actively engaged in various initiatives to support development back home.
Kiswendsida Salif Kaboré, representing Burkinabè students in Russia, raised concerns about passport renewal, administrative documents, and bursary supplements. The students' representative urged the government to address these issues to facilitate their stay and studies in Russia. The Prime Minister acknowledged these concerns and assured the students that the government is working to digitalize public services to resolve issues related to administrative documents.
Bouraima Sangaré, representing Burkinabè businessmen at the Russia-Africa summit, presented the Russo-Burkinabè Friendship Club. The club comprises at least 200 entrepreneurs from both nationalities, aiming to seize economic cooperation opportunities. The Prime Minister encouraged the business community to foster partnerships that yield tangible results. He emphasized the importance of Burkinabè entrepreneurs contributing to the country's development.
Prime Minister Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo highlighted the strategic partnership between Burkina Faso and Russia in the fight against terrorism and development. He encouraged the diaspora to embody the best image of Burkina Faso through their work and behavior in Russia. The Prime Minister also addressed the students' concerns, assuring them that the government is working to improve the bursary system to prevent students from facing precarious situations abroad.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Karamoko Jean Marie Traoré, provided an update on passport renewal, stating that the processing time is six months due to logistical constraints. He advised those whose passports are expiring to initiate renewal procedures early. Regarding bursary supplements, the Minister noted that the service is limited by available resources. The meeting concluded in a friendly atmosphere, with photos taken with the different components.
The encounter between the Burkinabè community in Russia and the Prime Minister demonstrates the government's commitment to engaging with its diaspora. The Burkinabè community in Russia has shown its support for the government's efforts to regain sovereignty and develop the country. The meeting also highlighted areas for improvement, including passport renewal and administrative services.
Key points
- The Burkinabè community in Russia praised the government's efforts to regain sovereignty and develop the country.
- The Prime Minister encouraged the diaspora to contribute to the country's development through their work and behavior in Russia.
- The government is working to improve administrative services, including passport renewal and bursary supplements, to support Burkinabè students and citizens abroad.
