DÉDOUGOU — The National Social Security Fund (CNSS) made a significant donation of food supplies to internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Dédougou on Saturday, August 3, 2024, providing much-needed relief amid ongoing security and humanitarian challenges. The donation, valued at over 3 million FCFA, included essential staples such as rice, corn, and cooking oil.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Director General of CNSS, the contribution was a response to the national call for solidarity to support victims of terrorist attacks and is part of a broader initiative by CNSS staff to aid those affected by the crisis. The donated goods, totaling 3,590,000 FCFA, comprised 60 bags of rice, 60 bags of corn, and 60 cans of oil, each aimed at alleviating the hardships faced by IDPs. "It is in this surge of solidarity that we wanted to make this donation to bring comfort and to contribute to the resolution of the humanitarian crisis that the country has been facing for several years," stated Nakambo during the ceremony.
Dieudonné Tougfo, President of the special delegation of the commune of Dédougou, expressed gratitude towards CNSS for their support. He highlighted the impact of such solidarity in enduring the tough conditions faced by the community and the crucial role it plays in fostering the economic and social development of Burkina Faso. Tougfo also presented specific needs of the IDPs, including a drinking water point and sanitation supplies, which Nakambo promised to address promptly.
Bakary Karambiri, representing the beneficiaries, conveyed the deep appreciation of the IDPs for the donation, noting its significance in their current circumstances. "On behalf of all IDPs, we rightly welcome this gesture of food which relieves us in our IDP situation. We thank our donors and pray to God that these kinds of donations will soon find us in our different localities," he added.
The secretary general of Mouhoun province assured that arrangements are in place to ensure the distribution reaches its intended recipients effectively. This gesture is part of a series of contributions by CNSS as the country navigates through the complexities of a dual security and humanitarian crisis, emphasizing the agency's ongoing commitment to national resilience and solidarity.