Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso — On Monday, Souleymane Sawadogo, the former Director of the AIB (Agence d’Information du Burkina), emphasized the importance of strengthening the agency’s capabilities to maintain its role as a primary information distributor. During an interview, he highlighted the pressing need for increased human, logistical, and financial support to enable the AIB to fulfill its mission effectively.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the Ministry of Communication recognized the necessity to elevate the status of the AIB and devised a strategic plan spanning from 2017 to 2019. However, he noted that this plan did not come to fruition. Despite these setbacks, Mr. Sawadogo applauded the recent signs of recovery in the agency’s operations, suggesting it might indicate the beginning of broader governmental recognition of the press agency’s crucial role in disseminating official information.

Mr. Sawadogo, who led the AIB from 2014 to 2018, expressed hope for a future where political commitment supports the creation of a robust press agency. He also extended his encouragement to the AIB staff and management for their exceptional efforts and called on young journalists to embrace humility and patience in their professional development, underscoring the invaluable experience gained from working within such an institution.