Ouagadougou: The Director General of the Burkina Faso Economic and Social Development Fund (FBDES Tongo), Ahmad© Nour Guenda, assured the Minister in charge of Culture, Pingdwend© Gilbert Ou©draogo, that his institution will sustain the missions previously managed by the Cultural and Tourism Development Fund (FDCT). This assurance comes as FBDES Tongo emerges from a merger of seven public funds, continuing the legacy of cultural development.

According to Burkina Information Agency, Mr. Guenda emphasized that the activities formerly under the FDCT will persist within the framework of FBDES Tongo. He articulated the fund's commitment to ensuring that culture remains a significant component in Burkina Faso's development strategy. This statement followed a working session with Minister Ou©draogo on Tuesday, June 10, 2026.

Mr. Guenda highlighted that the merger of the funds creates new opportunities through the consolidation of financial resources and expertise. This strategic reorganization is expected to enhance the fund's capacity to intervene and increase investments in projects with substantial economic and social benefits.

The newly structured FBDES Tongo comprises four specialized offices, including one dedicated to culture, arts, and tourism. This configuration aims to facilitate support for large-scale cultural projects and strategic investments that could invigorate the sector.

Discussing government policies on culture, Ahmad© Nour Guenda stressed the importance of promoting cultural entrepreneurship as a means to foster wealth and job creation. He urged industry stakeholders to improve governance, produce accurate financial reports, and establish viable business models, assuring them of continued government support.

"The government will continue to support cultural actors, but structures must evolve towards an entrepreneurial logic. Subsidies remain important, but it is entrepreneurship that allows for the sustainable creation of wealth and jobs," Mr. Guenda stated.