TITAO – In the city of Titao, located 230 km from Ouagadougou on the edge of the Sahel, resilience defines the community’s response to the persistent threat of terrorism. The city, nicknamed ‘warthog city’ for its resilience, continues to function daily under the shadow of danger, with its citizens adapting to the precarious security situation with notable courage and ingenuity.
According to Burkina Information Agency, daily life in Titao starts early with the call of muezzins at 4:30 AM. The community engages in their morning routines with a spirit of perseverance. The women sweep courtyards while the men head towards the mosque, led by the imam who offers prayers for safety through the night. Despite the ever-present threat, the city finds normalcy in its daily routines, supported by vigilant security forces. The streets, though shadowed by fear, slowly bustle into life as daylight spreads.
The city’s educational initiatives, particularly the ‘Save the school in Loroum’ project, highlight Titao’s determination. Isaac, a local teacher and a national excellence winner of 2023, recounts the growth of the initiative which began amid an epidemic of school closures in 2021. The project now supports over 1,500 students, despite facing significant logistical challenges, including a lack of adequate classroom space and supplies. The efforts of Isaac and his colleagues, including their adaptation to minimal resources, underscore a deep commitment to ensuring education continues in Titao.
Local authorities and humanitarian NGOs have rallied to support these educational efforts, with community teachers playing a pivotal role. The success of students in national exams, despite these hardships, attests to the effectiveness and dedication of Titao’s educators and their allies.
In a broader context, the security situation continues to affect every aspect of life in Titao. The local economy, particularly agriculture and small-scale industries, faces severe disruptions due to security concerns and logistical challenges. Moussa, a local market gardener, illustrates the struggles faced by producers who are unable to transport their goods due to the security risks. He advocates for organized convoys to facilitate the movement of goods, highlighting the need for innovative solutions to overcome the current challenges.
Titao’s story is one of a community refusing to yield to adversity. The residents, from teachers to farmers to small business owners, display a resilience that keeps the city alive and functioning, demonstrating the human capacity to adapt and thrive even under the most difficult circumstances.