Burkina Faso: insights from the first national health financing forum

The inaugural edition of Burkina Faso’s National Health Financing Forum (FONAFIS) concluded on March 27 in Ouagadougou, following its launch by Prime Minister Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo on March 25.

key discussions and priorities at the forum

This high-level event brought together political leaders, health experts—both local and international—and technical and financial partners (PTF) to address critical challenges in health financing. A central focus was the mobilization of domestic resources to reduce reliance on external funding for public health initiatives across Africa. Another priority was strengthening the continent’s health systems to build resilience against crises.

expert perspectives on health funding in africa

On the opening day, Mohamed Janabi, the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Regional Director for Africa, provided an update on health financing trends. He highlighted that 25% of health expenditures in the region are funded by external sources, underscoring the urgent need for sustainable, locally driven solutions.

Burkina Faso’s commitment to health sovereignty

Prime Minister Ouédraogo emphasized the government’s dedication to achieving health sovereignty as a cornerstone of Burkina Faso’s national transformation project. Since the launch of the People’s Progressive Revolution (RPP) in September 2022, the executive has pledged to prioritize self-reliance in funding its healthcare system.