Gourma: Internally displaced persons (IDPs) and host families in the commune of Fada N'Gourma received hygiene kits and maintenance equipment on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, during a ceremony presided over by the President of the Special Delegation (PDS) of Yamba, Issa Napon, representing the High Commissioner of Gourma. The handover marks a significant effort to bolster community resilience amidst prevailing security and humanitarian challenges.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the activity unfolded in a setting characterized by massive population displacements and significant pressure on basic social infrastructure. The Office for the Development of Evangelical Churches (ODE), along with its partners, has been at the forefront of providing support to vulnerable households in the area. The donation included 323 hygiene kits, electricity maintenance kits for young people trained by ODE, shelter maintenance kits for community volunteers, and equipment for four joint community committees.
Issa Napon, the PDS of Yamba, emphasized that this support is not a series of isolated actions but is intended to strengthen local capacities, enhance hygiene, and uphold household dignity. The initiative also aims to promote community empowerment and resilience. Mr. Napon praised the ODE's efforts, recognizing them as a crucial contribution to fostering solidarity and social cohesion, values that are highly regarded by national authorities in the current circumstances.
He further encouraged beneficiaries to manage the equipment effectively, transparently, and sustainably, ensuring the joint committees utilize the resources optimally. Nindja Thiombiano, representing the IDPs, highlighted the training provided on maintaining tents and shelters. 'We received certificates and equipment at the end of this training. This will now allow us to take care of the damaged shelters and tents of the IDPs,' he stated.
Daniel Ouedraogo, the ODE project manager, noted the forthcoming conclusion of the six-month humanitarian project executed by his organization. Despite the project's end, he expressed hope for continued ODE interventions in the region, particularly through development projects.