🇧🇫Burkina FasoWest Africa
Forty doctoral students trained on responsible AI use in scientific research in Ouagadougou
via Lefaso.net4 min read
Forty doctoral students from various disciplines received training on the strategic, ethical, and responsible use of Artificial Intelligence AI in scientific research on April 21, 2026, in Ouagadougou. The workshop, titled "AI & Doctoral Research: Tools, Methods, and Responsible AI Practices for Doctoral Students," was held at the Virtual University of Burkina Faso UV-BF, initiated by the Interdisciplinary Center of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence for Development CITADEL. Exclusively for early-career doctoral students, the workshop aimed to enhance their skills in using AI tools for bibliographic research, academic writing, and data analysis. It also served to raise awareness about scientific integrity, deemed essential as AI becomes an indispensable lever for scientific production. Dr. Rodrique Kafando, a research-lecturer at UV-BF and CITADEL, set the stage with a presentation on "Panorama of AI in Research: Opportunities and Realities." This topic clarified the capabilities, limitations, and potential pitfalls of these tools. He emphasized that researchers should avoid becoming mere machine executors, instead using AI as a lever to elevate their work towards greater ambition, interdisciplinarity, and scientific sovereignty. Salimata Sawadogo, a member of the organizing committee and trainer, stressed the need to supervise AI use among young researchers. She noted that while these tools are widely used, their mastery remains insufficient. She warned against blind trus
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A delegation from Niger's National Communication Observatory visited the Central Brigade for Combating Cybercrime BCLCC in Burkina Faso on April 20, 2026. The visit was part of a consultation aimed at establishing a platform for communication regulators from AES member countries. Led by Ibrahim Manzo Diallo, president of the ONC of Niger, the delegation sought to understand the BCLCC's expertise. They learned about the institution's creation, responsibilities, organization, and the numerous complaints recorded between 2020 and 2025. The president of the ONC thanked Police Commissioner Bantida Samire Yoni, commander of the BCLCC, for the reception. He noted that the BCLCC's work aligns with the future platform's objective to counter informational warfare by preventing fake accounts from manipulating populations with false information.
Must ReadAround twenty African descendants officially received their permanent residency cards in Burkina Faso during a dinner on April 20, 2026. This ceremony followed an inaugural conference held earlier that day on the theme "Colonization and the perpetuation of colonial systems," giving the event historical and political significance. The ceremony, presided over by the Minister Delegate for Foreign Affairs, Stella Eldine Kabré/Kaboré, highlighted the Burkinabe authorities' desire to strengthen ties with the African diaspora. Minister Kabré/Kaboré stated, "You are no longer visitors, you are one of us," emphasizing that the card symbolizes belonging and mutual commitment, and is just the first step in the process. Among the beneficiaries, Wilton Georges McDonald, a lawyer and member of the African Diaspora Development Institute ADDI, expressed that this recognition is a personal and professional turning point. He plans to contribute to Burkina Faso's economic development through investment, stating, "My work will be to bring investment here and elevate Burkina, my new home." Joshua Maponga also shared his enthusiasm, viewing the act as transcending national borders and making Burkina Faso a source of pride, embodying a pan-African vision of unity and sovereignty. Arikana Chihombori, president of the African Diaspora Development Institute ADDI, praised the initiative as a major step in bringing Africa and its diaspora closer, encouraging investment from beneficiaries. This initiativ
Must ReadBurundi's President and current African Union Chairperson, General Évariste Ndayishimiye, visited the Faso Mêbo agency's paving stone production site and Thomas Sankara Boulevard in Burkina Faso on April 20, 2026. Following the visit, President Ndayishimiye expressed his appreciation for the vision of Burkina Faso's President, who initiated the inspiring program, which he described as a symbol of unity among citizens. He shared that Burundi has a similar program called "community works for development," which has led to the construction of schools, health centers, and a stadium. General Ndayishimiye praised the Burkinabe model, stating, "What inspires me is how well organized it is. I am very delighted and I want to encourage the Burkinabe people to move forward, because to have peace, you must have common projects." He also plans to send a mission to learn from the Burkinabe model. The Director General of the Faso Mêbo agency, Commander Zoodnoma Ahmed Sakandé, stated that the visit was an honor and explained to the Burundian President that under the leadership of President Ibrahim Traoré, Burkinabe citizens are committed to building their country themselves.
Must ReadBurkina Faso has advanced its cooperation with the African diaspora by signing a memorandum of understanding with the African Diaspora Development Institute ADDI in Ouagadougou on April 21, 2026. The agreement, presided over by Minister of Foreign Affairs Karamoko Jean Marie Traoré, aims to leverage the expertise and resources of Afro-descendants for the country's development. Key initiatives include establishing a microfinance institution to support Burkinabe populations and economic actors, and providing technical and vocational training. The executive director of the National Bureau of Major Projects, Professor Hamidou Sawadogo, stated that ADDI will support Burkina Faso in technical and vocational training, with an immediate donation planned for the Ziniaré reference center. The memorandum also outlines plans for healthcare infrastructure, medical expertise from the diaspora, and technology transfer in Information and Communication Technologies. Additionally, Afro-descendants intend to support agricultural projects to enhance food security. Dr. Arikana Chihombori, President of ADDI, mentioned the establishment of six companies in various sectors, a microfinance project to provide funds for youth entrepreneurship, the construction of a "Wakanda city," and the creation of a football team. She also announced a donation of 1,000 computers to technical and vocational training schools. Minister Traoré emphasized that this partnership contributes to President Captain Ibrahim Tra