Ouagadougou: The Ministry of Homeland Construction launched a digital platform, 'e-Dmarcheur', to issue national cards for brokers involved in private residential leases. This initiative aims to professionalize the sector, combat fraud, and protect citizens.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the platform enables users nationwide to apply for their cards online and track the application process. Citizens can verify the status of canvassers and locate authorized professionals, as highlighted by the Secretary General of the ministry, Commander Ollo Palenfo. The digital card allows salespeople to legally operate without waiting for the physical card, which will meet high security standards to prevent falsification.
Commander Palenfo emphasized that this initiative is a significant step towards modernizing public administration, digitalizing services, and protecting citizens. The private residential rental sector is crucial to Burkina Faso's economic and social life, with numerous brokers serving property owners and tenants annually. However, the lack of regulation has exposed users to fraud, conflicts, and financial losses.
To address these issues, the government enacted interministerial decree no. 2026-001 on April 8, 2026, regulating solicitation in private residential leases. The decree mandates a three-year renewable salesperson's card for any remunerated contact. A notable feature of the system is the secure virtual card issued upon application validation.
Commander Palenfo described the platform as an instrument of good governance, enhancing transparency, traceability, and trust in the real estate sector. Kohoun Souako, Director General of the National Office for the Control of Development and Construction, noted that the platform would professionalize an informal sector, increase transparency, and curb scams and fraud.
Philippe Ouaba, Director of Information Systems at the Ministry, explained that applicants must submit digital applications with identity documents, criminal records, tax documents, and a passport photo. Legal entities require additional documents, including RCCM registration and company information. The platform includes a search engine to find approved sales agents by region, province, municipality, or sector.
Ouaba noted that landlords can identify reputable agents in their area and only engage with registered professionals. The platform integrates with the Directorate General of Taxes for electronic payment of the 200 CFA franc tax stamp. Validity of the e-stamp is essential for application progress, with automatic authenticity verification.
The platform enforces eligibility conditions, such as a minimum age of 18, automatically rejecting non-compliant applications. Through "e-Dmarcheur", the government aims to accelerate administrative procedure dematerialization, enhance public service quality, and build trust in private residential lease transactions.