Charming gentle-natured people! Security information about Burkina Faso in West Africa
Burkina Faso is a country located in the heart of West Africa. Surrounded by Mali, Ghana, Togo, Benin, Niger, and Côte d'Ivoire, this landlocked nation is sometimes referred to as the heart of West Africa. Burkina Faso exudes a calm and relaxed atmosphere, with its people known for their gentle demeanor. But what about the country's safety situation? Here, we provide information on the security conditions in Burkina Faso, a country of West Africa.
table of contents
[x] close
Charming gentle-natured people! Security information about Burkina Faso in West Africa
1. Avoid the Area Near the Border with Mali in Northern Burkina Faso
The area considered the most dangerous in Burkina Faso is the region near the border with Mali in the central-northern part of the country. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Overseas Safety Information, the area is designated at the highest alert level 4: “Evacuate Immediately,” so extreme caution is advised.
In 2013, conflict broke out between Mali’s national army and Islamic fundamentalist armed groups. As a result, about 50,000 Mali nationals became refugees and fled to Burkina Faso, worsening the security situation. Although Burkina Faso has taken counterterrorism measures and strengthened security, preventing major incidents from occurring recently, there is still risk. The terrorist organization “Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb” continues to call on Muslims to attack French interests, so vigilance remains necessary. As much as possible, avoid approaching the border area in the central north.
2. Armed Attacks Occur in Ouagadougou
In Burkina Faso’s capital, Ouagadougou, extra care regarding security is needed. Incidents tend to happen in places where many people gather. In 2016, armed groups attacked restaurants, cafes, and a hotel in Ouagadougou on the same day. This resulted in 30 deaths and 71 people injured. While there have been no major incidents since due to reinforced security by authorities, the situation remains unpredictable.
A basic but effective safety measure is to avoid suspicious people or objects. Be cautious both in crowded areas and in isolated alleys. Always stay informed with the latest security updates and remain vigilant about your surroundings.
3. Kidnappings of Foreigners in Soum and Oudalan Provinces
The northern regions of Burkina Faso, especially in Soum and Oudalan Provinces, have seen incidents of foreign abductions. Security in the northern part of Burkina Faso is relatively poor, and such kidnappings occur occasionally. In 2015, a Romanian man working as a guard at a manganese mine was attacked. The Islamic extremist group "Al-Mourabitoun" claimed responsibility. In 2016, an Australian doctor couple was also kidnapped. These incidents occurred in Soum and Oudalan Provinces, primarily targeting people working in Burkina Faso, but tourists should also be cautious.
In addition to the kidnappings, there have been repeated attacks on gendarmes and gendarmerie offices in the insecure northern areas of Soum and Oudalan. If there is no pressing reason to visit these provinces, it is wise to avoid them altogether.
4. Conduct Thorough Research Before Traveling by Land
If you are planning to cross Burkina Faso by land, it is essential to gather information in advance and proceed cautiously. Although Burkina Faso is relatively safe compared to other West African countries, its neighboring countries may not be. In fact, border regions throughout Africa tend to have poor security due to limited law enforcement.
In Burkina Faso specifically, armed robbery incidents have been reported in the eastern border areas near Niger and Benin. In some cases, assailants fire rifles at passing vehicles to force them to stop and then carry out robberies. These attacks have targeted not only private vehicles but also express buses. This route is not only prone to robbery but also to terrorist attacks and kidnappings. For safety, research the area beforehand and, if you have concerns, it is advisable to cross the border by air.
5. Beware of Scams and Theft
While Burkina Faso is considered relatively safe, tourists should be aware of scams, especially being overcharged. When taking a taxi, choose a trustworthy driver and either negotiate the fare in advance or ensure the meter is running properly. In restaurants and public places, always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid leaving them unattended. Refrain from wearing flashy outfits or noticeable jewelry, and do not carry excessive cash. It’s important to remember that following the basic rules of traveling abroad is crucial.
During your stay, it's also recommended to stock up on bottled drinking water at your hotel in case the security situation worsens.
◎ Summary
This has been a safety overview of Burkina Faso. While incidents such as foreign abductions and terrorism have occurred in certain areas, you can significantly reduce your risk of trouble by keeping up with the latest safety updates and avoiding reckless behavior.
Burkina Faso is a charming country, known for its warm and gentle people—something rare in many parts of Africa. Don’t overextend yourself; prioritize safety and make unforgettable memories in Burkina Faso.
Hotel
