Koupela: After three years of activities for the 'Prevention and Fight Against the Worst Forms of Child Labor (PPITE)' project, implemented in the Kourittenga and Gourma provinces, the Office for the Development of Evangelical Churches (ODE) held a workshop in Koupela to review progress and present the results achieved. The workshop was chaired by Ferdinand N'do, Secretary General of the Kourittenga province, representing the High Commissioner.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the project, with financial support from the NGO ERIKS in collaboration with the Federation of Evangelical Churches and Missions (FEME), has aimed to eradicate the worst forms of child labor. With a budget exceeding 400 million FCFA, the initiative has provided support to 1,260 households, benefiting nearly 1,920 children.

As part of the project's notable achievements, 408 child victims were identified in March 2025. Out of these, 113 children were able to return to school through educational scholarships, while 12 others received vocational training in fields such as sewing, carpentry, mechanics, or welding. After completing 3 to 6 months of training, these young individuals are prepared to embark on professional careers, having received installation kits and working capital.

Beyond assisting children, the project has also focused on local food production enhancement. Three groups of mothers from Koupela, Gounghin, and Baskoure were provided with soumbala production kits. The coordinator of ODE programs, Pastor Dr. Pierre Kabore, expressed satisfaction with the project's 103% completion rate and indicated ongoing efforts to enhance child protection capabilities in Kourittenga province.

The Secretary General of the Kourittenga province, Ferdinand N'do, commended the significant contributions of ODE and its partners, aligning with the Burkinabe government's vision and goals.