OUAGADOUGOU, November 22, 2025 – The Government of Burkina Faso and the World Bank have formalized a credit agreement for an additional 100.4 million dollars. This significant investment is earmarked to reinforce the Human Capital Protection Project, specifically targeting the continuous provision of essential social services across Burkina Faso.
These newly allocated resources are set to solidify initiatives such as free healthcare access for women and children, enhance routine immunization programs, facilitate the organization of national examinations, and bolster teacher training. These fundamental services are crucial for preserving the nation’s human capital and safeguarding its most vulnerable communities.
Since its initial endorsement in September 2024, the project has demonstrated considerable achievements. Within the health sector, it has enabled over 16 million complimentary consultations for women and children under five, alongside the vaccination of 1.13 million young individuals. Furthermore, the reimbursement rate for expenses related to free healthcare services has seen an uplift, progressing from 75% in 2023 to 82% by the close of 2024.
In the realm of education, the project has been instrumental in executing nine national examinations, achieving an impressive 98% participation rate. It has also contributed to the certification of 99.8% of educators and the distribution of 69,000 educational kits.
“The undeniable role of human capital in a nation’s development is well-established. This supplementary financing will undoubtedly amplify the Government’s endeavors to protect and enhance this invaluable asset, which is pivotal for Burkina Faso’s economic expansion and social advancement,” affirmed Hamoud Abdel Wedoud Kamil, the World Bank’s Resident Representative in Burkina Faso.
The Human Capital Protection Project, funded by the International Development Association (IDA), perfectly aligns with the World Bank’s regional strategy for West and Central Africa (2021–2025), which aims to strengthen key institutions for service delivery. It also corresponds with Burkina Faso’s Country Partnership Framework.
“This additional funding is critical for consolidating the gains made in the education and health sectors, both of which have been severely impacted by the security crisis. It will ensure that populations, including internally displaced persons, continue to benefit from improved access to basic social services,” stated Ousmane Deme, Senior Public Sector Specialist, and Daniel Pajank, Senior Economist, both World Bank project managers.
