In a recent development, Apollinaire Joachim Kyelem de Tambela, Burkina Faso's Prime Minister, has acknowledged the government's failure to adequately protect civilians during a deadly attack in Barsalogho, north-central Burkina Faso. The incident, which occurred on August 24, 2024, resulted in numerous civilian casualties while they were digging defensive trenches under army orders.
The attack has raised significant concerns about the junta's ability to address the ongoing insurgency that has plagued the country since 2015. This insurgency, which originated in neighboring Mali, has posed a persistent challenge to Burkina Faso's stability and security.
Conflicting reports have emerged regarding the death toll. A group representing victims' families claims at least 400 people were killed, while the United Nations estimates around 200 casualties. JNIM, an Al Qaeda affiliate that claimed responsibility for the attack, reported killing nearly 300 "fighters."
The Prime Minister's admission came during a flag-raising ceremony in Ouagadougou, the capital city. He stated that necessary instructions for protecting the population during collective mobilizations had been given by the head of state, questioning why these instructions were not followed.
"The head of state gave necessary instructions for protecting the population when there are collective mobilisations such as this one. Why were these instructions not respected?"
This tragic event underscores the complex security situation in Burkina Faso, a country that gained independence from France in 1960 and has since faced numerous challenges. With a population of approximately 21 million as of 2024, Burkina Faso ranks among the world's poorest nations, placing 182nd out of 189 countries in the UN Human Development Index.
The country's reliance on civilian involvement in military efforts has been a contentious issue. In May 2024, junta leader Ibrahim Traore called for civilians to assist in digging trenches around towns and villages. However, this strategy has led to increased civilian casualties, partly due to retaliation from insurgent groups.
The attack in Barsalogho has also highlighted concerns about forced civilian participation in these defensive measures. Some residents reportedly faced beatings when refusing to take part in trench digging activities.
Burkina Faso's security challenges are compounded by its geographical location in the Sahel region, known for its significant security issues. The country's young population, with a median age of 17.9 years, faces a life expectancy of just 62 years as of 2024, reflecting the impact of ongoing instability and limited development.
As Burkina Faso grapples with these security challenges, it continues to strive for progress in other areas. The country is Africa's 4th largest gold producer and hosts FESPACO, the continent's largest film festival, showcasing its cultural richness amidst adversity.
The recent attack and the government's response highlight the urgent need for improved security measures and a reassessment of civilian involvement in military operations to protect the population effectively.