OUAGADOUGOU – The Ministry of Communication in Burkina Faso has issued a reminder that, as of 2013, all cinematographic and professional photography activities in the country must receive official authorization before commencement.

According to Burkina Information Agency, this mandate, in place since May 21, 2013, stems from decree no. 2013-384/PRES/PM/CMT, which sets the conditions for practicing cinematographic and audiovisual professions in Burkina Faso. This reminder underscores the government’s ongoing commitment to regulate the industry effectively.

The policy was spotlighted in June 2021 when the general directorate of cinema and audiovisual conducted inspections in Ouagadougou. These visits targeted cinemas and film sets to ensure compliance with the administrative requirements governing the sector.

The process for obtaining the necessary filming authorization involves submitting several documents, including a professional card, and paying a fee. The cost for authorization varies, ranging from 10,000 to 30,000 FCFA for episodes, short films, and feature-length films produced in Burkina Faso. For films produced elsewhere in Africa but filmed in Burkina Faso, the fees range from 25,000 to 50,000 FCFA, depending on the project’s format.