Afro-Descendant Delegation Proposes Digital Projects to Boost Burkina Faso’s Tech Sector

A delegation of Afro-descendants led by Dr. Arikana Chihombori, former African Union Representative to the United States, visited Burkina Faso as part of the Pan-African “Back to Roots” initiative to explore partnerships in digital development, training, and skills transfer. The delegation met with Dr. Aminata Zerbo/Sabane, Minister of Digital Transition, Posts and Electronic Communications, on November 6, 2025, to discuss collaborative opportunities.

Key proposals from the delegation included establishing a pan-African communication station in Ouagadougou to combat media disinformation, reforming school curricula to integrate African history, and launching an extensive IT skills transfer program. The initiative aims to leverage the expertise of diaspora talent to support Burkina Faso’s digital transformation.

The Minister emphasized the need to strengthen local capabilities in digital technologies, artificial intelligence, and other emerging fields to bridge the current skills gap. She highlighted ongoing projects in the country, including the creation of data centers, digitization of public services, cybersecurity initiatives, expanding coverage to underserved areas, and integrating AI in public administration.

The Ministry views collaboration with the diaspora as a key opportunity to advance its digital agenda and has announced the establishment of a follow-up mechanism to ensure actionable outcomes. Discussions will continue to identify priority areas for partnership, with a focus on concrete projects and impactful results.