Faith Nyasuguta
A sharp geopolitical standoff is unfolding between Washington and Ouagadougou as the United States has accused Burkina Faso’s military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traore, of using the country’s multi-billion-dollar gold reserves to entrench his regime instead of fostering national development.
The claim emerged during a recent U.S. Senate hearing where AFRICOM commander General Michael Langley alleged that Traore was using over $4 billion in gold reserves primarily to protect and sustain his military-led government.
The explosive remarks quickly reverberated across Africa. South Africa’s Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) condemned the U.S. allegations as “imperialist propaganda” aimed at destabilizing a sovereign African government striving to reclaim its natural wealth. In a strongly worded statement, the EFF declared, “Captain Traore is being punished for standing up to Western interests. He expelled French troops, halted colonial-style mining deals, and is now ensuring that Burkina Faso’s resources benefit its people.”
Traore, who seized power in a popular coup in 2022, has made resource sovereignty a cornerstone of his leadership. His government recently nationalized two major gold mines, Boungou and Wahgnion, sending a strong signal that Burkina Faso intends to take full control of its mineral wealth. The country, ranked as Africa’s fourth-largest gold producer, has long struggled with widespread poverty despite its rich deposits. Many Burkinabe have grown frustrated watching foreign companies extract billions while local communities remain underdeveloped.
The leader’s aggressive reforms don’t stop at mine takeovers. Traore has also vowed to revoke dormant mining permits and eliminate corruption in the sector. His message is clear: Burkina Faso’s resources must serve its 22 million citizens, not foreign multinationals or distant empires.
The U.S criticism is being viewed by many as part of a larger strategy to discredit African leaders pushing back against Western economic dominance. Analysts note that the timing of the allegations, just as Burkina Faso deepens partnerships with non-Western allies like Russia, suggests a geopolitical motive. Yet, supporters of Traore argue that his government’s actions reflect a legitimate quest for dignity, justice, and economic independence.
Across the continent, many are watching Traore with admiration. In a region rife with military coups and unrest, he is emerging as a symbol of defiance and sovereignty. His vision, of African wealth finally uplifting African people, is winning hearts beyond Burkina Faso’s borders.
Whether the West approves or not, one fact is clear: under Traore, Burkina Faso’s gold is no longer up for grabs.
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