WASHINGTON, January 24, 2025 – The World Bank has officially greenlit a substantial financial package aimed at bolstering the healthcare infrastructure in Burkina Faso. This initiative includes a credit of €142 million (equivalent to $150 million) from the International Development Association (IDA)* and an additional $17 million grant from the Global Financing Facility (GFF). These funds are earmarked for the Project to Strengthen Health System Performance and Resilience (PRPRSS).

This comprehensive program is strategically designed to improve disease surveillance and enhance the utilization of vital health and nutrition services. It specifically targets adolescents, women, and children under the age of five across the entire nation. A critical focus will also be placed on internally displaced persons and communities facing significant barriers to healthcare access.

“Human development is a cornerstone of social inclusion and holds paramount importance for the World Bank. This project is set to bolster government efforts in building resilience and effectively navigating the current challenges within the health sector. It complements the recently approved Human Capital Protection Project, which provides $100.4 million to improve the delivery of essential social services,” stated Hamoud Abdel Wedoud Kamil, the World Bank Resident Representative for Burkina Faso.

The PRPRSS aligns seamlessly with the World Bank’s strategy for the West and Central Africa region, which prioritizes strengthening the social contract by empowering 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 toward development and prosperity. The GFF is proud to support the government of Burkina Faso in constructing an efficient and resilient health system, guaranteeing healthcare for these critical demographics, even in the most fragile regions,” emphasized Luc Laviolette, Head of the GFF Secretariat.

“This timely project will significantly contribute to enhancing the country’s capacity for health emergency preparedness and response, while simultaneously elevating the quality and uptake of health and nutrition services. Furthermore, it will extend the World Bank’s support for various reforms undertaken by the Ministry of Health, aiming to fortify governance, equity, and sustainable financing within the healthcare sector,” explained Moussa Dieng, the World Bank’s Health Portfolio Manager.

By Mariama Hamani — Analyst