Burkina Faso Facts

While Burkina Faso is a beautiful country with a rich and vibrant culture, it’s also home to many children who live in poverty and face devastating challenges. 

Educational Challenges Cause Children to Fall Behind 

According to recent data, only 33% of those living in Burkina Faso aged 25-64 can read and write. Adults who can’t read or write find it hard to get secure and well-paying work. As they’re unable to provide for themselves and their families, escaping poverty is almost impossible. Quality education is critical for children to grow into self-sufficient adults empowered to leave poverty behind. 

Our Response: Offering Educational & Vocational Opportunities 

Through our local church partners, children receive educational opportunities such as tutoring as well as tuition support and school supplies so they can go to school and grow. 

For older children and teens, we offer vocational training opportunities to teach them income-generating skills they can use to provide for themselves and build secure futures free from poverty. 

Natural Disasters Put Children at Risk 

Many regions in Africa, including Burkina Faso, face frequent crises such as poor growing seasons and devastating floods. These disasters place already vulnerable children at higher risk. When disaster strikes, children face exposure to the elements, hunger and the need for critical medical care. 

Our Response: Providing Emergency Care to Those in Need 

Compassion has worked with local churches to establish a Disaster Relief Fund to care for communities facing crisis. This fund empowers churches to provide children and families with emergency food and water, temporary shelters, counseling, medical interventions and more.