Ouagadougou: The National Agency for the Promotion of Inclusive Finance (ANPFI) has officially appointed its first regional director in Bobo-Dioulasso, marking a significant step in enhancing the institution's presence and service delivery in western Burkina Faso. Ilassa Ouédraogo, appointed by decree n°2026-0099/MF/SG/ANPFI on March 31, 2026, assumed his new role during a formal ceremony led by Souleymane Nakanabo, the secretary general of the Guiriko region, representing the Governor.According to Burkina Information Agency, the Secretary-General highlighted the dual significance of Mr. Ouédraogo's mission, describing it as both "great and noble." He underscored the necessity of establishing a local service to better connect with the people, providing essential services as required. He also affirmed the regional authorities' commitment to supporting the new regional director in fulfilling his role.Ilassa Ouédraogo, the newly appointed regional director, identified key challenges, including promoting acce ss to inclusive financial services and enhancing financial literacy among local populations. He emphasized that collaborating with partner microfinance institutions would be crucial in channeling resources to vulnerable communities, enabling them to pursue income-generating activities.The establishment of this regional office is a pivotal part of ANPFI's decentralization strategy, aiming to forge stronger connections with the populace. The directorate's jurisdiction encompasses the regions of Guiriko, Tannounyan, Djôrô, Bankui, and Sourou.In his speech, Mr. Ouédraogo expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Economy and Finance and the General Directorate of ANPFI for their trust. He committed to improving access to inclusive financial services, promoting financial education, and fostering partnerships with local authorities, financial institutions, and community organizations.Wango Fidèle Yaméogo, Director General of ANPFI, stated that this is the first of several regional directorates to be operationaliz ed, with future openings planned in Koudougou, Kaya, and Tenkodogo. He reiterated ANPFI's role as a strategic state tool designed to facilitate vulnerable populations' access to financial services and promote financing mechanisms that enhance their living conditions.The Director General further explained that the regional director will act as a vital link between the public, administrative authorities, local communities, and agency partners, focusing on funding oversight, partnership development, organizational support, and financial literacy promotion. He concluded by noting that this regional office signifies ANPFI's commitment to being more present among the population and effectively addressing local economic development challenges through inclusive finance.