Faith Nyasuguta
In a powerful address at the United Nations General Assembly, Burkina Faso’s Foreign Minister, Karamoko Jean Marie Traore (pictured Left) delivered a scathing critique of foreign powers, accusing them of deliberately worsening the suffering of the Sahelian people.
His speech highlighted the ongoing struggles in Burkina Faso and the broader Sahel region, where terrorism and humanitarian crises have taken a severe toll on the population.
Traore began by outlining the progress Burkina Faso has made in reclaiming its territory from terrorist groups. He proudly stated that nearly 70% of the country’s territory is now under government control, a significant increase from the 40% reported in 2022. This achievement, he emphasized, is a testament to the professionalism and dedication of Burkina Faso’s Defense and Security Forces (FDS).
He praised their conduct in peacekeeping operations and their adherence to international humanitarian law, which he argued is often overlooked by the international community.
However, Traore’s speech quickly turned to a more accusatory tone as he singled out foreign powers for their role in exacerbating the region’s suffering. He accused these powers of financing and supporting terrorism in the Sahel, a claim that has been a recurring theme in Burkina Faso’s recent rhetoric.
Traore specifically mentioned Ukraine, alleging that it has been a sponsor of terrorist activities in the region. This accusation is part of a broader narrative that foreign interventions and interests are undermining the stability and security of Sahelian countries.
The Foreign Minister also highlighted the creation of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), a coalition aimed at protecting the populations of the Sahel from the ongoing security and humanitarian crises. He described the AES as a lifeline for the region, providing much-needed support and coordination in the face of external threats. Traore expressed frustration with the international community’s response to the AES’s appeals, particularly the UN Security Council, which he claimed has been slow to take decisive action.
Traore’s speech was not just a condemnation of foreign interference but also a call for greater recognition and support for African-led initiatives. He reiterated Burkina Faso’s support for a reform of the UN Security Council to include African representation, arguing that this would address the persistent injustices faced by the continent. He called for a more inclusive and equitable international system that acknowledges the contributions and challenges of African nations.
The Foreign Minister’s address was a stark reminder of the often contentious nature at play in the Sahel region. It highlighted the deep-seated frustrations of Sahelian countries with foreign interventions that they perceive as self-serving and detrimental to their stability. Traore’s speech was a plea for solidarity and support from the international community, but it was also a declaration of resilience and determination from Burkina Faso and its neighbors.
As the Sahel continues to grapple with terrorism, humanitarian crises, and external pressures, the voices of its leaders like Traore are crucial in shaping the global narrative and response. His address at the UN was a powerful statement of Burkina Faso’s stance and a call to action for the international community to recognize and address the root causes of the region’s suffering
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