Burkina Faso severs diplomatic ties with France, eyes economic sovereignty and national currency
via Lefaso.net7 min read
On June 26, 2026, Burkina Faso officially announced the rupture of its diplomatic relations with France, citing a "choice of responsibility and sovereignty" in the face of perceived persistent "neocolonial ambitions." The Burkinabe government stated that conditions for relations based on mutual respect, trust, non-interference, and national sovereignty were no longer met. Ouagadougou accused Paris of "incessant activism" against its interests and of supporting "subversive networks and terrorists." This diplomatic break is part of a broader push for sovereignty, particularly in the economic sphere. Burkina Faso is actively working to regain control of its natural resources, with gold being a central focus. National gold production reached a record 94 tons in 2025, driven by reforms and increased state control over the sector. Burkinabe shareholders now hold majority stakes in six of the 15 industrial mines, and three are directly controlled by the state through the Société de participation minière du Burkina Faso Sopamib. A significant initiative is the creation of the Sovereign Mining Investment Fund of Burkina Faso FSMIB, named "Siniyan-Sigui," established by decree to transform gold revenues into long-term development. The article suggests that while these advancements are notable, full economic independence requires control over national currency, which is currently lacking with the CFA franc. The creation of a national currency, backed by gold reserves and natural wealth,
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