Ouagadougou: Comrade Minister of Communication, Culture, Arts and Tourism, Pingdwend© Gilbert Ou©draogo, has urged both public and private media in Burkina Faso to deviate from conventional journalistic standards, emphasizing the importance of adapting to the nation’s current territorial reconquest and information warfare challenges posed by imperialist media.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Minister Ou©draogo made these remarks during a scientific conference organized by the Institute of Advanced International Studies (INHEI). The theme of the conference, “Media and diplomacy: understanding the diplomatic challenges of information processing by Burkinabe media,” provided a platform for the Minister to underscore the critical role of media in political and cultural diplomacy. He invited media outlets to collaborate with the government, highlighting that diplomacy and communication are intertwined arts.
Minister Ou©draogo pointed out that the prevailing security situation demands a novel approach to information processing. He emphasized that continuing to operate as though the country were not in a state of war is unrealistic, urging media practitioners to embrace war communication dynamics.
In defense of the government’s stance to move away from traditional journalistic norms, the Minister cited the necessity of extending television news segments and reports on public media to ensure comprehensive explanations for the populace. He referenced Western media examples like France 24 and RFI, which function as instruments of influence under their foreign ministries, advocating for Burkina Faso to pursue a similar path by aligning information processing with local cultural values.
Addressing criticisms of governmental measures affecting the media since 2022, Minister Ou©draogo reaffirmed the presence of press freedom in Burkina Faso. He illustrated this with the continued vibrancy of interactive programs but cautioned against the concept of absolute freedom, emphasizing accountability.
The Minister encouraged Burkinabe media to adopt editorial strategies that not only present challenges but also celebrate triumphs against terrorism, thus boosting morale among those fighting on the front lines.
Concluding his address, Minister Ou©draogo announced the upcoming African Universities of Communication event, scheduled for October 8 to 10, 2026, and highlighted Professor Serge Th©ophile Balima as the scientific committee chair. He reiterated the government’s pledge to support the media through ongoing dialogue and reflection, ensuring freedom without suppression.