The Institute for Cultural Diplomacy, today welcomed President Blaise Compaoré of Burkina Faso. President Compaoré argues that his country can play a vital role in peace building within Western Africa. The event was co-organised with the German Foreign Ministry
President Blaise Compaoré has ruled Burkina Faso from 1987, seizing power following a coup. President Blaise attended military college and from 1978 to 1981 he served as head of section and later company commander. During his military training, President Blaise became deeply embroiled in national politics. Despite the murky political past in Burkina Faso from 1987, President Compaoré has maintained a respected regional leader who has often mediated disputes in other Western African countries. He has also served as the chairman of many organisations, including; the Organisation of African Unity and the Economic Community of West African States.
The President’s speech focused mainly on the economical aspect of Burkina Faso. The main question raised was how to attract investors to Burkina Faso? The first point made by the President is that the country does not own natural resources (petrol or gas), compared to other African states. However, The president emphasised that Burkina Faso has plenty of gold mines.
President Compaoré pointed out that Burkina Faso has all the components to be a welcoming state for sponsors. The first thing to do to attract investors is to create a stable environment. The main point raised by the President is that Burkina Faso created the perfect basis to invite new investors – namely building peace. Indeed, the situation in the country is stable. The government is working toward peace and stability.
One question from the panel concerned the youth employment. It is clear that youth is a very important aspect of the future of Burkina Faso. The president mentioned that education is essential. More than 80% of children are enrolled in schools and the number of boys and girls is nearly equal in the classroom now. However, it should be mentioned that the first and basic concern of the population is, finding water and being healthy.
To conclude, the President repeated that Africans are the most suitable people to rule on the African continent since they have the knowledge of the country.
