Ouagadougou: The United Nations has provided crucial humanitarian assistance to more than one million individuals in Burkina Faso during the first half of 2024, as the country grapples with ongoing challenges. The aid, which includes food, shelter, medicine, and clean water, was distributed across 106 municipalities in 10 regions, according to Carol Flore-Smereczniak, the UN Resident Coordinator in Burkina Faso.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Flore-Smereczniak highlighted the efforts of the UN system to reach more than one million Burkinabè, with a target to assist 3.8 million people. The announcement was made during a press conference commemorating the 79th United Nations Day, where Flore-Smereczniak emphasized the alignment of the UN’s humanitarian actions with the national humanitarian response plan.
Despite these efforts, Flore-Smereczniak pointed out that a significant challenge remains in securing the necessary resources for continued aid. Only 39% of the projected $935 million needed for th
e year has been mobilized, highlighting the pressing need for additional funding to sustain ongoing solidarity actions.
The UN’s presence in Burkina Faso dates back to 1966, and its country team, consisting of 33 entities, plays a vital role in supporting the Burkinabe government. Employing approximately 1,400 people, the majority of whom are Burkinabe, the UN team is engaged in various operations focused on humanitarian aid, peace stabilization, social cohesion, and development.