In Tougan, the High Commissioner of the Sourou province, Salif Traoré, conducted an accountability tour on Monday, October 16, 2023, meeting with religious and customary leaders. The tour aimed to share updates on actions taken and to gather concerns from these leaders in an effort to bolster social cohesion amidst growing insecurity.

According to News Releases by Burkina Information News Agency, the provincial authorities are seeking enhanced collaboration from traditional and religious leaders to restore the region’s previous state of security and peace. Salif Traoré, joined by Secretary General Julien Zanzé and other provincial officials, visited various important locations in Tougan, such as the palace of customary notables, the headquarters of the Federation of Evangelical Churches and Missions, the imam’s residence, and the parish presbytery.

During the tour, the High Commissioner outlined the deteriorating security situation since January 2023, attributing it to a blockade imposed by terrorists. He noted that Tougan has accommodated over 56,000 internally displaced persons and mentioned that the province has been the target of multiple terrorist attacks. However, the Defense and Security Forces, aided by the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland and the blessings of the religious leaders, have successfully thwarted all attempts.

Salif Traoré also briefed the leaders about various measures to be undertaken to alleviate the suffering of the population in sectors like health and education, as well as ensuring the availability of basic necessities. The religious and customary leaders appreciated the initiative and pledged their commitment to promoting social cohesion and peace. They also expressed concerns about road accessibility and the availability of pharmaceutical products, suggesting that other partners be sought for a sustainable supply.