Burkina Faso Focuses on Territory Reclamation, Mourns Fatal Accident, and Eyes CAN 2023 Progress

OUAGADOUGOU – Burkina Faso’s dailies on Monday highlighted a tragic accident on national road No. 1, the national football team’s draw in the African Cup of Nations (CAN) 2023, and the government’s efforts in reclaiming national territories.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the commitment of the Fighting Forces and the determination of the Transitional authorities have led to notable progress in reclaiming the national territory. The paper reports that in the Center-North region, displaced populations have begun returning to their localities, resuming their regular activities in peace.

In a related development, L’Observateur Paalga, a prominent private daily, focused on the remarks of the Minister of National Defense, Brigadier General Kassoum Coulibaly, to the combat troops. He emphasized the need for the National Armed Forces to remain disciplined and professional. Additionally, LExpress du Faso, a newspaper published in Bobo-Dioulasso, highlighted U.S. support in the fight against terrorism, noting the provision of rolling stock to Burkina Faso’s Ministry of Territorial Administration and Decentralization.

The private newspaper Le pays reported on a tragic road accident that occurred on January 20, 2024, 5 km after PS on national road No. 1, resulting in 9 fatalities. Sidwaya confirmed the accident, adding that 25 others were injured. L’Observateur Paalga relayed a ministry advisory urging road users to exercise caution and adhere to highway code regulations.

In sports, the Burkina Faso national football team, the Stallions, drew with Algeria’s Fennecs in their second group match of CAN 2023, as reported by L’Observateur Paalga. The 2-2 tie delayed Burkina Faso’s advancement to the round of 16, with the team needing a favorable result in their next game to progress. Sidwaya noted that the national team is on the verge of qualifying for the round of 16 at the tournament in Ivory Coast.