Koup©la: The High Commissioner of the Kourittenga province, Moctar Ilboudo, along with the provincial directorate responsible for Water in Kourittenga, conducted an inspection at the central market and various streets in Koup©la. Their visit aimed to assess the implementation of the newly enacted law that prohibits the use and sale of plastic packaging while emphasizing the necessity of environmental conservation.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the new legislation bans the import, production, and marketing of single-use plastic bags and packaging across Burkina Faso. On Thursday, August 21, 2025, the High Commissioner and the provincial directorate made rounds in Koup©la to ensure compliance with this legislation and to educate citizens about the detrimental environmental effects of plastic bags.

Kalifa Ou©draogo, head of the provincial environmental preservation service in Kourittenga, reported inspecting six units, including depots, food stores, and a fish market. Ou©draogo noted that there is a general compliance with the law, and efforts to raise awareness have been ongoing since the law passed. He indicated that while awareness campaigns continue, stricter enforcement measures are anticipated soon.

Retailers like Bintou B©lem, a food store manager, have started using alternatives like cloth bags and reusable paper containers, aligning with the new regulations. B©lem expressed support for the decision, acknowledging the environmental benefits of reducing plastic bag usage and the responsibility of retailers to adapt.

However, some retailers, such as grocery store manager St©phane Kouraogo, have requested leniency from authorities as they deplete their existing plastic stock. Kouraogo assured compliance once current stock is exhausted.

Kalifa Ou©draogo mentioned that the awareness phase will soon transition to enforcement, with penalties for non-compliance. Importers could face fines between 5 million and 50 million CFA francs, while distributors could incur penalties between 5 and 6 million CFA francs. Seizure of prohibited packaging is also anticipated.

The regulation, a step towards combating environmental pollution, bans the market placement of plastic bags with a density under 50 microns or a size less than one meter, along with other single-use plastic items. This follows legislation enacted on December 30, 2024, and effective since July 9, 2025, nationwide.