Gourma: The Ministry of Territorial Administration and Migration (MATM) conducted its first Council of Administration of the Ministerial Sector (CASEM) session for the year 2026 through a videoconference. The focus was on the roles of heads of administrative districts in supporting territorial authorities.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the session was chaired by Emile Zerbo, Minister of State, Minister of Territorial Administration and Mobility, in Ouagadougou. The session revolved around the theme "Operationalization of the General Code of Territorial Authorities: roles of heads of administrative district in supporting Territorial Authorities," engaging central and decentralized ministry officials nationwide.
In the Goulmou region, the session was overseen in Fada N'Gourma by Governor Ram Joseph Kafando, alongside regional officials, including the secretary general, administrative district heads, technical advisors, and other key representatives. The involvement of High Commissioners and Secretaries General of Special Delegations highlighted the participation of territorial actors.
Minister Zerbo opened the session by situating the meeting within a national context focused on reclaiming territory, under President Ibrahim Traore's leadership. He emphasized the need for national commitment to achieve victory against terrorism, aligning with the newly adopted RELANCE Plan for Burkina Faso's development.
He reiterated the ministry's dedication to combating corruption and emphasized the importance of understanding the General Code of Territorial Authorities. Heads of administrative districts were urged to actively provide supervision, advice, and strategic support to territorial authorities.
Reflecting on 2025, Minister Zerbo reported an 89% implementation rate of planned initiatives. Notable achievements included territorial redistricting, increasing regions and provinces, adopting the General Code of Territorial Authorities, organizing a national conference on transport, implementing the Integrated System for Automated Management of Transport Documents (SIGATT), developing a digital civil status event registration solution, establishing the Faso Airports Company (SAFA), securing over 6.35 billion CFA francs for the state budget, enhancing the early warning system, and opening three new fire and rescue companies, including one in Fada N'Gourma.
Governor Kafando praised the digital approach, noting its potential to reduce government expenditure and enhance administrative efficiency. He mentioned that in Gayeri, Bogande, and Pama, the CASEM was conducted via videoconference by respective authorities.
For 2026, the ministry's activity program outlines 687 activities with a budget of 263,156,794,000 FCFA. Minister Zerbo urged stakeholders to diligently execute planned actions to stabilize the territory and improve living conditions for the population.