Burkina Faso’s President, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, has refused an offer from Saudi Arabia to build 200 mosques in the country. Instead, he asked Saudi Arabia to invest in projects that would help his people more, such as schools, hospitals, and businesses that create jobs.

President Traoré pointed out that Burkina Faso already has enough mosques, with many of them not fully used. He explained that the country needs development projects that will make it stronger and help it grow in important areas.

His decision reflects his broader plan for national progress. Since becoming president, Traoré has focused on improving public infrastructure to ensure lasting development.

His government has introduced reforms to improve how public projects are managed. The Ministry of Housing now controls the entire construction process, from planning to building, while making sure all safety, environmental, and technical standards are met.

Beyond infrastructure, Traoré has launched initiatives to address the housing shortage, especially for people displaced due to security problems. On July 12, 2024, he announced a project to build 1,000 social housing units, showing his dedication to providing homes for all Burkinabè by 2030.

In his push for economic self-sufficiency, the president has also rejected financial support from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Instead, he wants to use the country's own resources. His government is focusing on agriculture, local industries, and sustainable development to build a stronger economy.

By rejecting the Saudi offer, President Traoré made it clear that his priority is to focus on education, healthcare, and economic growth. He believes these are the key areas needed to secure a better future for Burkina Faso.