Burkina Faso Marks 25th International Migrants Day, Highlights Migrants’ Role in Development

Bobo Dioulasso, December 18, 2025 - The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Cooperation, and Burkinabè Abroad, through the Directorate General for Burkinabè Abroad and in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), commemorated the 25th International Migrants Day on Thursday in Bobo Dioulasso, Guiriko Region.

The official ceremony was presided over by the Governor of Guiriko Region, representing Minister Karamoko Jean Marie Traoré. This year’s theme, “Migration in the Service of Cultural Diversity, Social Inclusion, and Economic Development,” emphasized the contributions of migrants to the socioeconomic and cultural development of their countries of origin, transit, and destination.

Ambassador Michel Somma, Director General for Burkinabè Abroad, described the theme as a call for states to facilitate the reception, integration, and well-being of migrants, while David Coomber, Head of Mission for IOM in Burkina Faso, stressed the importance of promoting social reintegration for returning migrants.

During the event, migrant representative Aboubacar Guindo expressed gratitude for national support and urged further measures to protect migrants from abuse, exploitation, and mistreatment.

Highlighting Burkina Faso’s proactive approach, the Governor noted initiatives including free visas for Africans holding valid passports, a national migration plan, and the creation of a national migration observatory.

The celebration featured a panel discussion on migration policies, a football match between foreign communities and returning Burkinabè migrants, testimonials, and a screening of films highlighting Burkinabè realities, underlining the government’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development through migration.