The African Media Network for Health and Environment Promotion (REMAPSEN) convened a vital discussion on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. The central theme explored was: “Security Crisis and Declining External Funding: What Endogenous Alternatives Can Guarantee Sexual and Reproductive Health/Family Planning Rights in Burkina Faso?”
Amidst an escalating security crisis and the gradual withdrawal of international donors, Burkina Faso faces a significant challenge: ensuring the uninterrupted provision of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services.
Historically, the Ministry of Health reported that approximately 81% of funding for this crucial sector originated from external partners. However, over recent years, this financial contribution has drastically decreased, compelling national stakeholders to seek innovative internal solutions.
Désiré Thiombiano, the director of AMS synergie Burkina Faso, emphasized that the pathway forward lies in fostering greater public awareness and direct community engagement.
He firmly stated, “We can no longer simply wait for our partners to return. It is imperative that we, as a nation, invest in sexual health to prevent the devastating impacts of early pregnancies, child marriages, and maternal deaths.”
To achieve this, the expert proposed several key strategies: first, educating the populace on their vital role in resource mobilization; second, strengthening positive masculinity by involving influential opinion and religious leaders in communication and advocacy efforts; and finally, formalizing community-level fundraising through local territorial authorities to ensure transparent and sustainable fund management.
Dr. Clarisse Bougma, representing the director of family health, highlighted the significant commitments made by the Burkinabè state. Between 2020 and 2025, the government allocated nearly 3.9 billion CFA francs towards procuring contraceptive products. Despite the reduction in external funding, the ministry remains dedicated to continuing its crucial initiatives, particularly within remote and hard-to-access regions.
She underscored, “The mobilization of endogenous resources is a strategic imperative. It will not only ensure the longevity of our programs but also accelerate our progress towards achieving international health objectives.”
Boureima Sanga, the coordinator for REMAPSEN Burkina Faso, clarified that this gathering formed part of a broader advocacy drive aimed at enhancing journalists’ capabilities.
He asserted, “In this era of multiple crises, it is paramount for the media to be well-informed about endogenous financing mechanisms. This knowledge empowers them to educate the public and bolster our national health sovereignty.”
REMAPSEN, established in June 2020, consistently organizes such national forums, supported by the Ouagadougou Partnership, to champion the development and implementation of local, sustainable solutions.