TLDR: Burkina Faso’s Ministry of Digital Transition, Postal and Electronic Communications has launched a National Situational Analysis Workshop to formulate the country’s inaugural Artificial Intelligence (AI) Action Plan. Held on August 27, 2025, the workshop brought together diverse stakeholders to forge a unified vision for AI, aiming to harness its potential for inclusive digital and socio-economic transformation, with a provisional roadmap spanning 2026–2028.
Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso – On Wednesday, August 27, 2025, Burkina Faso embarked on a pivotal journey towards its digital future with the launch of a National Situational Analysis Workshop. Organized by the Ministry of Digital Transition, Postal and Electronic Communications, the event’s primary objective is to draft the nation’s first comprehensive National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Action Plan. This initiative seeks to establish a shared strategic vision for AI development and leverage its transformative power for the country’s digital and socio-economic advancement.
The workshop convened a broad spectrum of participants, including government officials, leaders from the private sector, academics, and civil society representatives. These diverse groups were divided into working sessions to delve into critical aspects of AI, such as governance, ethical considerations, data management, research and development, training, and innovation. The insights garnered from these discussions are expected to form the bedrock of the initial draft of Burkina Faso’s AI Action Plan, which will include a provisional roadmap for the years 2026–2028.
Dr. Somé, a key figure at the workshop, underscored the importance of collaborative efforts from all stakeholders. He emphasized AI’s potential as a powerful instrument for fostering inclusion, strengthening national sovereignty, and driving socio-economic transformation. “This plan must deliver concrete and lasting solutions,” Dr. Somé stated, adding, “AI represents a chance to create homegrown innovations that benefit all citizens.”
Further elaborating on the nation’s ambitious vision, Aminata Zerbo/Sabane, the Minister of Digital Transition, Posts, and Electronic Communications, highlighted Burkina Faso’s commitment to becoming a leading AI player in West Africa. “We are working to maximize AI’s benefits while mitigating risks,” Minister Zerbo/Sabane affirmed. “Our goal is to establish Burkina Faso as a hub for independent AI innovation, developing solutions tailored to our unique needs and cultivating a generation of experts capable of competing regionally. Burkina Faso possesses the necessary assets to become a regional AI leader.”
To realize this vision, the government has already taken significant steps, including the establishment of the Permanent Secretariat for Innovation and Monitoring of Emerging Digital Technologies (SPIVTEN), which is tasked with overseeing and regulating AI development. Investments in robust infrastructure, such as a national backbone and a G-Cloud for secure data hosting and high-performance computing, are also underway. The country is actively deploying AI-powered digital solutions, such as the DJAM platform and regulatory chatbots, to modernize public services and streamline administrative processes.
Also Read:
- Egypt Advocates for Robust AI Governance to Foster Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Future
- UAE Unveils Groundbreaking AI Curriculum for K-12 Education, Paving Way for Africa’s Digital Future
Capacity building and training are central to the plan, with substantial funding allocated through the Digital Transformation Acceleration Project (PACDIGITAL) to establish AI centers of excellence and offer scholarships for specialized training. This strategic focus aligns with broader continental trends, as a PwC study projects that AI could contribute an impressive $1.2 trillion to Africa’s economy by 2030, boosting GDP by 5.6% through productivity gains in vital sectors like agriculture, health, finance, and education. Burkina Faso aims to harness these advancements to develop localized solutions and foster a competitive digital ecosystem.
