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Burkina Faso: Celebrating the capacity for resilience on World Refugee Day

In 2024, more than 39,000 refugees were registered in Burkina Faso, 97% of whom were Malians (UNHCR data). Indeed, the socio-political and military crisis that broke out in Mali in January 2012 led to the displacement of thousands of Malians seeking safety in Burkina Faso, mainly in the Sahel region.

Beyond their status, refugees are also affected by the security context and internal displacements. This situation exacerbates their vulnerability and their ability to meet their basic needs, exposing them to numerous protection risks.

To meet these needs, DRC has been working with refugees for many years. With the support of the US Governmnent through BPRM (Bureau for Populations, Refugees and Migrations), DRC has been implementing since 2020 several programs to contribute to the resilience and empowerment of refugees, IDPs and host communities in the Sahel region of Burkina Faso.

Through this project, DRC supports refugees to strengthen their livelihoods, their access to education and their access to protection services. For World Refugee Day, we are celebrating the resilience of refugees in the town of Gorom-Gorom (Sahel).

Aicha: I am confident about the future... I feel at home here.

"I come from Gossi, in the Timbuktu region of Mali. Because of insecurity, I left Gossi for Dibissi (in Déou department, Burkina Faso). From Dibissi, I then had to move again to Gorom Gorom. I am the head of my household, and when

I arrived in Gorom, my family experienced many problems related to shelter and food. Through support from another organisation, I was able to have two shelters for my household. However, I still was not able to provide for myself and my family.

I was targeted by DRC following a community targeting process. I was able to exchange with DRC teams about my situation and my needs. As a result, I received a training in small business management, sheep to start my livestock activities, and food assistance. My two daughters have also benefited from schooling support from DRC.

This situation has put a smile back on my face. Now, I know that once I have fattened up my animals, I will be able to sell them and buy more to start a new cycle and generate more income. I am confident about the future because this shelter and this business make me feel at home."

Mohamadou: After the training, I want to start my own business...

"... This will allow me to take better care of myself and my parents, who are also refugees.

I had to leave Gao in Mali for Burkina Faso because of the attacks. When I arrived in Burkina in 2012, I encountered a lot of difficulties, mainly related to access to water, food and healthcare. We didn't have the means to do anything about it and to take care of ourselves.

Today, I am receiving vocational training in welding thanks to DRC Burkina. This vocational training is important because it will enable me to get a job. Here, I'm learning how to make chairs and tables. After the training, I want to set up my own business. That will enable me to take better care of myself and my parents, who are also refugees.