The Government of Burkina Faso has received commendation from UNICEF for its efforts to reopen schools that were previously shut down due to insecurity. Despite ongoing challenges, the move shows the country’s commitment to protecting children’s education and welfare.
The praise came during a meeting on Thursday between Prime Minister Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo and UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell. The meeting occurred in Ouagadougou during Russell’s first official visit to the country. Discussions focused on improving cooperation in child protection, education, and healthcare.
Russell praised the government’s actions.
We congratulate the Government of Burkina Faso for reopening schools that had been closed due to insecurity, she said.
She described the decision as a strong step towards ensuring every child has access to learning, even in difficult times.
The Prime Minister spoke about the government’s commitment to helping children and restoring education. He said the safety of citizens remains a top priority and that steps are being taken to improve access to education in areas affected by violence.
He also mentioned programmes already in place to support children. These include investments in schools, health services, and nutrition. He said the government works actively and steadily to meet children’s needs.
The Prime Minister spoke about the importance of investing in children’s education, health, and nutrition, and we fully share this view, Russell added.
She said UNICEF is ready to keep supporting these efforts.

The visit shows a strong working relationship between UNICEF and the Burkinabè government. Both sides agreed to continue working together on issues affecting children.
In recent years, Burkina Faso has faced insecurity and displacement that forced many schools to close. However, some areas are now safer, allowing the government to reopen schools and bring children back to classrooms.
Russell also met with humanitarian partners and visited project sites during her visit. These visits aimed to check the progress of UNICEF’s work and explore new ways to support the country.
Education officials say they are hopeful. With more support and better security, they believe more children will return to safe and functional schools nationwide.
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