Burkina Faso’s leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, has reaffirmed his government’s position that foreign countries and companies are welcome to work with the country, but only on terms that respect its sovereignty and control over its natural resources.
Traoré said Burkina Faso would welcome anyone willing to cooperate with the country on an equal footing, while warning against foreign arrangements that seek to exploit its resources or dictate the terms of engagement.
“Anyone who wants to cooperate with us is welcome,” Traoré said. “But now in Burkina Faso, the resources belong to us 100%. If they come with the spirit of a master to treat us like slaves, we will expel them.”
His remarks underscore the government’s increasingly firm position on the ownership and management of Burkina Faso’s mineral wealth.
The country has been pursuing greater national control over its mining sector, including increased state participation and efforts to ensure that a larger share of the benefits generated from its natural resources remains within Burkina Faso.
Traoré’s comments draw a clear distinction between foreign investment based on partnership and arrangements that place Burkina Faso in the position of a subordinate supplier of raw materials.
Under the position outlined by the government, foreign companies and states remain free to operate and cooperate in Burkina Faso, but are expected to do so on terms that respect the country’s sovereignty and national interests.
The government’s approach reflects a broader push to redefine Burkina Faso’s relationship with external partners and maximise the economic benefits of its mineral resources for its citizens.
Traoré’s message was unequivocal: Burkina Faso considers its natural resources national assets, and any foreign access to them must be based on negotiation, mutual respect and shared benefits.
The position adds to growing debates across Africa over resource sovereignty, foreign investment and the need for mineral-rich countries to secure greater value from their natural wealth.