Burkina Faso Outlines 12 Key Projects for a Digitally Transformed Nation

The Burkina Faso government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo, has held a seminar focused on the country’s digital transformation, with a theme of “On the road to 2030.” In his opening remarks, the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI) for the future of the nation. He noted that the government, following instructions from President Ibrahim Traoré, is committed to dematerializing administrative processes to enhance clarity and transparency.

Acknowledging that AI is often viewed as the new industrial revolution, the Prime Minister emphasized the need for Burkina Faso to rapidly upgrade its capabilities to become an active participant rather than a passive spectator. While he recognized that AI might cause apprehension, he underscored the vast opportunities it offers, particularly in redefining the world of work. To fully capitalize on this technological revolution, he stated that a clear policy and investment in training and equipment are essential.

The seminar’s discussions centered on three key areas: a guidance paper on digital transformation in Burkina Faso, the role of AI, and a review of the implementation of the integrated internal and external missions circuit (CIM and CIMEXT). The guidance document lays out an ambitious vision for 2030, which aims to provide widespread, high-quality electronic communication networks and secure digital services to meet the population’s needs.

To achieve this vision, twelve major projects have been identified: eliminating “white zones” (areas without network coverage), ensuring all public administration data is stored locally, connecting all public administration buildings, moving towards a paperless and cashless public service, protecting critical infrastructure, providing a digital identity for all citizens, ensuring inclusive access to public services, building a strong talent pool in the IT sector, and ensuring the population is digitally literate.

The seminar also delved into how AI can improve governance and enhance the well-being of the population. Furthermore, the Prime Minister addressed the progress of the CIM and CIMEXT implementation, which has been successful but has seen some delays in state-owned enterprises. He reiterated that these tools are a mandatory measure to ensure efficient management of public resources. This seminar is intended to revitalize Burkina Faso’s digital transformation, equipping the country to adapt to global technological advancements and better serve its citizens.