Conflict in Burkina Faso

Almost 1 million people have been forced to flee their homes due to extremist violence.

Efforts by both government forces and local militias to fight it have uprooted even more communities.

Major attacks by Islamist militants were launched in 2016 on hotels and restaurants in the capital, Ouagadougou.

Increased violence through 2019 has continued in 2020, and the situation is not getting any better.

Some of the families forced to flee are able to stay with relatives or friends, but many more are in crowded camps or buildings such as schools.

The insecurity and instability make it difficult for aid workers to reach some of the people in need, and coronavirus is making the situation even worse.

A lack of resources is further hampering aid efforts across the country’s 13 regions – all of which are hosting displaced people.

Right now, Burkina Faso is one of the fastest-growing displacement crises in the continent.

*Images credit: Anne Mimault/Help

Conflict and poverty will make the situation even more difficult for families in the face of a potential coronavirus outbreak.

In overcrowded spaces, like urban settlements and camps, shelter is extremely vital. It enables families to apply physical distancing and isolate where necessary.

Despite the challenges for humanitarian organisations, we are working with our partner Help to support the most vulnerable communities. We have previously worked on a pilot project in 2020, supporting families with tarpaulins, kitchen sets, water carriers, sleeping mats, high thermal blankets, mosquito nets and solar lights.

Right now, we’re working again with Help to support more families with tarpaulins, kitchen sets, sleeping mats, blankets, and other essential items, including soap and buckets.

Our partner Help will be adopting mitigation measures during distributions, including the use of antibacterial gel, masks, gloves and physical distancing.