Burkina Faso’s Minister of Defence, General Célestin Simporé, opened the government’s semi-annual performance review with a detailed account of military and administrative advancements in the fight to reclaim national territory from armed groups.
Following a working session with Prime Minister Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo, General Simporé presented an implementation rate of 36.61% for commitments made between January and June 2025.
While the figure appears modest, the minister insisted it should be viewed within the broader context of ongoing operations.
“Several initiatives launched in the first half of the year—such as military restructuring and ongoing recruitment drives—have yet to reach completion,” he explained, noting that their full impact would only be measurable by year’s end.
A central focus of the report was the recovery of state control across Burkina Faso’s territory.
General Simporé highlighted a tangible increase in reclaimed land, with 72.70% of the country now under state authority, up from 70.89% at the end of 2024.
Key areas of progress included the Sourou Valley, particularly the town of Di, which has been successfully retaken. Security has also improved in Diapaga and Djibo, regions previously destabilised by persistent violence.
These advances have facilitated a gradual resumption of economic activities and public administration.
“Regular supply convoys are now reaching several areas, including the East and Djibo, even ahead of the rainy season,” said the minister.
He also pointed to the resumption of operations at the Boungou gold mine as a positive indicator, alongside the progressive return of civil services in newly secured zones.
However, General Simporé acknowledged that more work lies ahead.
The consolidation of restructured military formations and the completion of recruitment efforts remain top priorities under the new national defence strategy.
This mid-year review reflects Burkina Faso’s ongoing efforts to combat armed insurgencies and restore full state sovereignty.
While challenges persist, the government remains committed to reinforcing national stability and reclaiming its entire territorial integrity.
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