Burkina Faso: Message from President Ibrahim Traoré to religious leaders
President Ibrahim Traoré delivered a strong message of recognition and encouragement to the Catholic religious leaders of Burkina Faso for their crucial role in raising awareness and restoring national territory. This message was conveyed on Friday, October 18, 2024, during a meeting at the Cardinal Paul Zoungrana Center in Ouagadougou, where a delegation led by the Minister of Public Service, Bassolma Bazié, met with the President of the Burkina-Niger Episcopal Conference, Bishop Laurent Dabiré.
At the start of the meeting, a prayer followed by a minute of silence was held in memory of the fallen fighters. Minister Bazié explained the significance of the visit, emphasizing that the President of Faso wanted to congratulate and encourage religious leaders for their commitment. He highlighted that their role in preserving national unity amid the current security crisis is invaluable. Without their efforts, the divisions within Burkinabe society would have been much deeper.
President Ibrahim Traoré urged them to continue their spiritual and social fight, particularly by raising awareness in communities and among young people, who are often the first victims of violence and recruitment by enemy forces. The Minister stressed that many young people, feeling lost or seeking work, are easily swayed by the enemies of the nation. Therefore, it is crucial for religious leaders to intensify their awareness efforts to guide the youth towards values of peace and resilience.
Bishop Dabiré praised this initiative from the government, underscoring the importance of unity and national solidarity in the fight for territorial restoration. He reiterated the Catholic Church’s commitment to support the nation through concrete actions of awareness and prayer.
In the face of constant threats to the nation, the Burkinabe people are called to demonstrate resilience. The crisis that Burkina Faso is experiencing is a collective challenge, and together, guided by a unified vision and strengthened by faith, they can push back against the forces of evil and restore peace.
