BURKINA FASO – President Ibrahim Traoré is actively overseeing the ongoing development of an USD 8 million tomato processing facility, marking a significant step in transforming Burkina Faso’s agricultural sector.
The foundation stone for the plant was laid in September 2023. With an initial construction deadline of seven months, the progress made so far is impressive.
Despite only 40% of the scheduled time having elapsed, the overall execution rate of the project has already reached 46%, according to the companies overseeing the project.
Spanning 3 hectares, the Bobo-Dioulasso tomato processing plant is expected to generate over 150 direct jobs and more than 10,000 indirect jobs.
This development is a work in progress but represents a crucial step towards improving the economic and social well-being of local communities.
By investing in local processing capabilities, President Traoré aims to maximize the value of Burkina Faso’s agricultural produce, enhance food security, and empower local farmers.
This strategic initiative not only addresses immediate economic needs but also lays a foundation for long-term prosperity and resilience.
President Traoré’s proactive approach extends beyond agriculture, encompassing broader economic reforms and infrastructure projects to boost national development.
Despite challenges such as security threats and environmental changes, his administration remains steadfast in its pursuit of transforming Burkina Faso into a self-sufficient and economically robust nation.
Burkina Faso’s economy relies heavily on agriculture, with 80 to 90% of the population engaged in this sector. In 2021, the country produced an impressive 290,000 tons of tomatoes, yet a significant portion was exported to neighboring Ghana. Due to perishability, much of the harvest was lost.
Challenges such as these have driven the need for local processing capabilities. The new facility aims to convert locally grown tomatoes into paste, puree, and sauces, addressing the issue of waste and reducing dependency on imported products.
“President Traoré’s vision for economic self-sufficiency aligns with the construction of this state-of-the-art tomato processing plant,” said an official from the Agency for the Promotion of Community Entrepreneurship, which is funding the initiative.
The facility is expected to create 100 direct jobs and over 5,000 indirect employment opportunities, positively impacting local communities.
President Ibrahim Traoré’s leadership exemplifies a strategic vision for Burkina Faso’s economic sovereignty, setting a precedent for using national resources to foster sustainable growth and reduce dependency on foreign imports.
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