Burkina Faso secures major funding to bolster health system resilience
WASHINGTON, January 24, 2025 – The World Bank has officially greenlit a significant financial package for Burkina Faso’s health sector. This includes a 142 million euro (equivalent to 150 million US dollars) credit from the International Development Association (IDA)*, complemented by a 17 million dollar grant from the Global Financing Facility (GFF). The combined funding is dedicated to the Project for Strengthening Health System Performance and Resilience (PRPRSS).
This crucial initiative is strategically designed to enhance disease surveillance and improve access to vital health and nutrition services, with a primary focus on adolescents, women, and children under the age of five. Its scope is national, ensuring that support reaches across the entire country, while paying particular attention to internally displaced persons and communities facing limited healthcare access.
“Human development is paramount for social inclusion and stands as a top priority for the World Bank. This project is set to bolster the government’s efforts in building resilience and navigating current challenges within the health sector,” stated Hamoud Abdel Wedoud Kamil, the World Bank’s Resident Representative for Burkina Faso. He further noted, “It also complements the recently approved 100.4 million dollar Human Capital Protection Project, which aims to improve the delivery of essential social services.”
The PRPRSS aligns seamlessly with the World Bank’s strategy for the West and Central Africa region. This strategy emphasizes strengthening the social contract by reinforcing key institutions involved in delivering fundamental social services.
“Ensuring women, adolescents, and children have access to healthcare represents one of the most invaluable investments governments can make to propel countries towards development and prosperity,” highlighted Luc Laviolette, Head of the GFF Secretariat. He added, “The GFF is proud to stand with the government of Burkina Faso in constructing an effective and resilient health system, guaranteeing healthcare for these target groups, even within the most vulnerable areas.”
“This project arrives at a critical juncture, as it will significantly contribute to strengthening the nation’s capacity for health emergency preparedness and response. Concurrently, it will elevate the quality and utilization of health and nutrition services,” explained Moussa Dieng, the World Bank’s Health Portfolio Lead. He concluded, “Furthermore, it will extend the World Bank’s ongoing support for the various reforms undertaken by the Ministry of Health, aimed at fortifying governance, equity, and sustainable financing across the health sector.”
