Violence intensifies crisis in Burkina Faso
Crisis in Burkina Faso
Conflict in Burkina Faso has displaced 10% of the population and cut off 40 cities from aid. Agencies report only 17% of the needed funds have been received.
A Mother’s Tale
In Bobo-Dioulasso, during a jihadist attack, Maimuona went into early labor and gave birth to her son, Seydou, nicknamed “the lucky one.”
Continued Displacement
For two years, Maimuona’s family has been unable to return home. Since 2014, the insurgency has displaced over 2 million people. Attackers burned her village, killing livestock and destroying property.
Living in Exile
Maimuona now lives in a cramped home in Hauts-Bassins with her family. Her son, injured during their escape, walks with a limp from untreated injuries.
Political Instability
The conflict began in 2014 with an uprising that ousted President Blaise Compaoré. His removal led to further instability, making the country vulnerable to attacks. The current president, Ibrahim Traoré, is fighting to regain control over areas under extremist influence.
Increasing Violence
Last year, violence resulted in over 8,000 deaths, a sharp increase from the previous year. The army is accused of executing 223 civilians in one day, a claim the government denies.
Humanitarian Crisis
Maimuona’s family, among 256,000 displaced, struggles financially in Hauts-Bassins, relying on local generosity for basic needs.
Severe Hunger
Aid workers stress the urgent need for food. Over 2.7 million people face hunger, and aid is not reaching 40 blockaded cities where prices of goods have soared.
Education Disrupted
About 80% of schools are closed due to violence, affecting over 818,149 students. Some schools have built additional classrooms to accommodate displaced students.
Community Support
Despite hardships, the resilience of affected populations and the support from host communities are notable. Maimuona hopes her family can eventually return to their home village.
This summary highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Burkina Faso, marked by violence, displacement, and a desperate need for international aid.
Re-reported from the article originally published in The Guardian.
