Context
Since 2016, Burkina Faso has faced a security crisis that has triggered massive internal displacement. In 2023, more than two million people were internally displaced. As a result, almost one in four internally displaced persons (IDPs) now reside in the Centre-Nord region, most of whom are women and children.
Consequently, existing administrative systems and social services struggle to accommodate the influx of IDPs. This scale of displacement undermines social cohesion, disrupts local economies, and slows the region’s broader recovery efforts.
Objective
The Centre-Nord region of Burkina Faso has improved social inclusion and sustainable development, allowing both displaced populations and host communities to live together in greater stability.
Approach
The project implements targeted measures to address displacement-related challenges:
- Access to basic services: The project provides training for teachers, school directors, social workers, and local administrators to better integrate IDPs and improve service delivery;
- Social cohesion: It promotes inclusive dialogue between host communities and displaced populations, and provides targeted training, coaching, and financial support for local initiatives;
- Economic development: The project assists displaced persons and local residents to start businesses, advises associations and agencies, and facilitates access to markets and finance. This third measure is co-funded by the European Union (EU) and implemented in collaboration with the Belgian development agency Enabel.