Burkina Faso’s health progress: WHO’s 2024–2025 report highlights resilience and care access
The World Health Organization’s (WHO) 2024–2025 biennial report for Burkina Faso details significant accomplishments achieved amidst a complex landscape of security, humanitarian, and climatic adversities.
A standout achievement is the nationwide expansion of the malaria vaccine across all 70 health districts, representing a critical step forward in preventing malaria and safeguarding children’s health. The report also highlights the introduction of the WHO PEN package in six health districts, enhancing integrated management of non-communicable diseases within primary healthcare settings.
A pivotal policy development during this biennium is the enactment of an anti-tobacco decree, which prohibits smoking in public spaces and on public transport. This demonstrates the nation’s commitment to advancing public health and mitigating preventable risk factors.
WHO-supported initiatives targeting malaria control have consistently delivered widespread impact: over 5 million children received seasonal malaria chemoprevention, and approximately 15 million insecticide-treated mosquito nets were distributed nationwide.
To ensure the continuity of vital services in vulnerable and hard-to-reach regions, WHO facilitated the establishment of advanced health posts and mobile clinics. Furthermore, 58 tons of essential medicines and medical equipment were successfully delivered to support at-risk populations.
The report further underscores foundational advancements in health information systems, notably the implementation of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) in four key reference hospitals. This represents a crucial stride towards enhancing data quality, improving mortality surveillance, and enabling evidence-based decision-making.
These outcomes collectively highlight Burkina Faso’s progress in building health system resilience, strengthening service delivery, and protecting its citizens. They also identify strategic priorities for further consolidation in upcoming programmatic cycles.
