Dakar, 06 October 2023 - The Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), Leonardo Santos Simão, today concluded a two-day working visit to Burkina Faso.

During his visit, the Special Representative held a series of meetings with the transition authorities and the various partners. The Special Representative met with Olivia Rouamba, Minister of Foreign Affairs, accompanied by a delegation of members of the transition government. The Special Representative also met with religious leaders, civil society representatives, including the National Youth Council, the diplomatic corps and the United Nations country team in Burkina Faso.

Discussions focused on the political, humanitarian and security situation at national and regional level. Special Representative Simão underlined the importance of mobilizing in coordination with various partners, notably the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), to better combat the terrorist threat and reinforce stability and security in Burkina Faso. He also reiterated the commitment of the United Nations, in close coordination with the transitional authorities, to continue providing the humanitarian assistance needed by vulnerable populations. Speaking of the impact of the security situation on the population, Mr. Simão stressed the urgency of taking the necessary measures to facilitate the delivery and access of vulnerable populations to humanitarian aid from UN agencies.

On their side, the transitional authorities reaffirmed their appreciation of the UN's continued support in responding to humanitarian concerns. They reiterated the need for the international community's support in responding adequately to crucial security needs.

The UN Office for West Africa and the Sahel, in coordination with the transition authorities, the UN country team, ECOWAS, and other partners, will remain committed to supporting the efforts of the people of Burkina Faso to restore peace and stability.