Who’s 2024–2025 biennial report highlights Burkina Faso health progress and resilience

The World Health Organization (WHO) 2024–2025 Biennial Report for Burkina Faso outlines significant achievements made within a context defined by persistent security, humanitarian, and climatic challenges.

Key accomplishments detailed include the nationwide scaling-up of the antimalarial vaccine across all 70 health districts, representing a critical leap forward in malaria prevention and safeguarding children’s health. Furthermore, the report highlights the successful implementation of the WHO PEN package in six health districts, enhancing integrated management of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) at the primary healthcare level.

A significant regulatory milestone during the biennium was the enactment of an anti-tobacco decree, which prohibits smoking in public spaces and on public transport. This underscores the nation’s commitment to public health promotion and the reduction of preventable risk factors.

WHO-supported initiatives targeting malaria control have consistently delivered widespread impact. Over 5 million children received seasonal malaria chemoprevention, and approximately 15 million insecticide-treated mosquito nets were distributed nationwide.

In remote and vulnerable areas facing access challenges, WHO played a vital role in ensuring the continuity of essential health services. This was achieved through the deployment of advanced health posts and mobile clinics, alongside the delivery of 58 tons of crucial medicines and medical equipment to disadvantaged communities.

The report further highlights foundational advancements within health information systems. Notably, the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) was implemented in four reference hospitals, a pivotal step towards enhancing data quality, improving mortality surveillance, and enabling evidence-based decision-making.

These collective outcomes underscore Burkina Faso’s progress in bolstering health system resilience, strengthening vital services, and safeguarding its population. The report also outlines strategic priorities that require sustained focus in upcoming programmatic cycles.