3,400 Burkinabè return from Guinea
A government delegation welcomed the first wave of 3,400 citizens expelled from Guinean gold sites at Bobo-Dioulasso stadium.
A first group of 3,400 Burkinabè, expelled from Guinea and transiting through Mali, arrived in Bobo-Dioulasso on the night of November 6-7, 2026. They were met by a government delegation at the Bobo-Dioulasso sports stadium. This arrival marks the return of citizens who left Guinean artisanal gold mining sites following that country's decision to suspend such activities.
The group arrived in 48 buses from Mali. Minister of Family and Solidarity, Lieutenant-Colonel Passowindé Pélagie Kaboré/Kabre, stated that the government would provide health, psychosocial, and socio-professional reintegration support. A security and health check, followed by psychosocial profiling, was initiated upon arrival. Minors will be housed, while adults will be registered and can rejoin their families.
The government plans to offer vocational training and educational opportunities, including university access for BAC holders, as stated by the solidarity minister. Minister of Secondary Education, Vocational Training and Technical Education, Moumouni Zoungrana, encouraged the returnees to pursue training in fields like agriculture, livestock, and welding. Another 199 buses are en route to bring back more citizens.
Why it mattersBurkinabè citizens expelled from Guinean gold sites are returning home and will receive government support for reintegration.