Burkina Faso's 37-year-old President Ibrahim Traore seized power in a 2022 coup. He distanced himself from France and the United States, increased cooperation with Russia, and spearheaded a new nationalism against Western colonialism.
Ibrahim Traore: Burkina Faso's 37-year-old President Ibrahim Traore has become a symbol of African nationalism against Western colonialism. A soldier turned revolutionary leader, Traore, since assuming power, has distanced himself from countries like France and the United States, while strengthening ties with Russia and Turkey. His policies are fostering a new wave of Pan-African identity and self-reliance.
Ibrahim Traore: A New Hope for African Youth
Burkina Faso's young and revolutionary President Ibrahim Traore has become the face of nationalist politics and opposition to Western dominance in Africa. At 37, he is among the leaders who have completely reshaped their country's policies since coming to power.
From Coup to Power
One September morning in 2022, the sounds of gunfire echoed through Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso's capital. This was no ordinary event. 34-year-old Captain Ibrahim Traore, along with fellow soldiers, staged a coup, ousting then-President Paul-Henri Damiba. This marked the beginning of a new chapter in African politics.
A Sharp Attack on Africa's Image
In a speech at the United Nations, Traore stated, "When I was a child, the Africa shown on TV was only associated with hunger, war, and poverty." He described how Western media portrayed Africa as a backward and violent continent, an image that spread globally.
Education and Military Background
Traore was born in Bondoukou and received his schooling in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. He later studied Geology. Despite this, he chose the military over working in mines, a decision indicative of his unconventional thinking. He underwent anti-aircraft training in Morocco and also participated in a UN mission in Mali.
Steps Taken After Assuming Power
After becoming president, Traore took several decisive steps to reduce Western influence:
Severing Ties with France: French troops were expelled from the country.
Control over Media: Media outlets like France 24 and Radio France Internationale were banned.
Nationalization: Two gold mines were nationalized, and the establishment of the first gold refinery was announced.
Growing Proximity to Russia and Other Countries
In May 2025, Ibrahim Traore met with Russian President Vladimir Putin. They discussed security and economic cooperation. This clearly indicated Traore's desire to strengthen relationships with countries like Russia, Turkey, and Cuba, instead of traditional allies like France and the United States.
Inspiration from Thomas Sankara
Ibrahim Traore openly acknowledges his admiration for Thomas Sankara, the great African leader of the 1980s. Like Sankara, Traore opposes dependence on foreign aid. He famously stated, "He who feeds you controls you," a philosophy reflected in his policy-making.
Decisive Action Against Terrorism
Burkina Faso has long suffered from Islamic terrorism. After assuming power, Traore launched a vigorous campaign against these terrorist groups. He organized local people, arming them to create the "Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland" (VDP). However, his forces have also faced accusations of human rights abuses.
Support for a Pan-African Ideology
Traore, along with Mali and Niger, formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). This organization is becoming an alternative to ECOWAS and promotes unity and independence among African nations. Traore believes that the CFA franc, the West African currency issued by France, should be abolished as it is a symbol of colonialism.
Schools and Hospitals, Not Mosques
Recently, Traore rejected a Saudi Arabian proposal to build 200 mosques in Burkina Faso. He stated that the country needs schools, hospitals, and job-creating industries, not mosques. This decision demonstrates foresight and highlights Traore's prioritization of fundamental development.
