Ouagadougou: Burkinabe Prime Minister Rimtalba Emmanuel Ouedraogo has officially launched the “senior volunteering” and “diaspora volunteering” initiatives. This announcement took place during the second phase of the national days of patriotic commitment and citizen participation, aiming to foster resilience, unity, and prosperity within the nation.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Prime Minister Ouedraogo emphasized that these new volunteering initiatives are a crucial advancement in the country’s ongoing efforts to bolster patriotic and civic engagement. He noted the initiatives come at a critical juncture in Burkina Faso’s history, as the nation grapples with various challenges.
During the launch ceremony, themed “Promoting senior volunteering and diaspora volunteering through patriotic commitment in the service of the Progressive and Popular Revolution in Burkina Faso,” the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of leveraging all human resources to address the country’s current security, humanitarian, and economic issues.
He further explained that these initiatives align with the government’s vision to rebuild the nation and harness collective energy. The programs are also expected to contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to education, reducing inequalities, promoting decent work, and fostering peace.
The Director General of the Public Interest Group – National Volunteer Program in Burkina Faso (GIP-PNVB) reiterated Burkina Faso’s commitment to investing in human capital through these programs. He stated that the country seeks to strengthen citizen participation and involve all Burkinabe in significant national projects, both domestically and abroad.
Karamoko Jean Marie Traore, the Minister in charge of Burkinabe Abroad, described the initiatives as essential tools for reinforcing the connection between Burkinabe living abroad and their homeland. He noted that these programs would further mobilize the diaspora to support national development efforts.
Roland Somda, the Minister in charge of Youth, underscored the importance of fostering intergenerational dialogue through these initiatives. He emphasized the role of seniors in imparting values, knowledge, and experience to younger generations, which is vital for the nation’s progress and unity.