Burkina Faso seeks domestic solutions for sexual and reproductive health funding
The African Media Network for Health and Environment Promotion (REMAPSEN) convened a pivotal discussion on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, addressing a critical challenge: “Security crisis and declining external funding: what domestic alternatives to ensure sexual and reproductive health/family planning rights in Burkina Faso?”
Amidst a persistent security crisis and the gradual withdrawal of international donors, Burkina Faso faces a significant hurdle in maintaining essential sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services.
Figures from the Ministry of Health reveal a heavy reliance, with nearly 81% of SRH funding historically originating from international partners. In recent years, this crucial support has seen a substantial decrease, compelling national stakeholders to devise sustainable internal solutions.
Désiré Thiombiano, director of AMS Synergie Burkina Faso, emphasized that the path forward lies in raising public awareness and fostering direct community involvement.
He asserted that “the time for waiting for partners to return is over. We must proactively invest in sexual health ourselves to prevent issues like early pregnancies, child marriages, and maternal deaths.”
To achieve this, the expert outlined a three-pronged approach: first, educating communities on the imperative of contributing to resource mobilization; second, strengthening positive masculinity by engaging influential opinion and religious leaders in communication and advocacy efforts; and third, formalizing community-based fundraising through territorial collectives to ensure transparent and sustainable management of funds.
Dr. Clarisse Bougma, representing the Director of Family Health, highlighted the Burkina Faso government’s sustained commitment. Between 2020 and 2025, the state allocated approximately 3.9 billion CFA francs towards procuring contraceptive products. Despite the reduction in external funding, the ministry remains dedicated to its initiatives, particularly in remote and hard-to-reach areas.
“Mobilizing domestic resources is a strategic imperative. It will guarantee the longevity of our efforts and accelerate progress towards achieving international objectives,” she affirmed.
Boureima Sanga, the coordinator for REMAPSEN Burkina Faso, stated that this gathering is part of a broader strategy to advocate for SRH and enhance the capabilities of journalists.
“In a complex environment marked by multiple crises, it is crucial for media professionals to be well-informed about endogenous financing mechanisms. This enables them to effectively sensitize populations and bolster health sovereignty,” he explained.
REMAPSEN, established in June 2020, consistently organizes such national events, supported by the Ouagadougou Partnership, to promote local and sustainable health solutions.
