SAHEL REGION
The threat of terrorism and violent extremism have worsened in recent decades, become increasingly pronounced in the Central Sahel region of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. The security challenges inherent in the sub-regional context, resulting from the increase in asymmetric threats and their various forms of manifestation as well as the outbreak of social tensions, have resulted in the advent of transitional regimes in the three countries of the Central Sahel and the creation of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) in 2023. Burkina Faso became a GCERF partner country in 2021. To date, GCERF has invested USD 7.31 million in the country, with four newly signed grants worth USD 3.58 million currently supporting 4 local civil society organisation (CSO).
- Passoré
- Yatenga
- Zondoma
- Loroum
- Oudalan
- Seno
- Soum
- Yagha
- Komoé
- Léraba
- Poni
- Noumbiel
- Bougouriba
- Ioba
Background & Context
Understanding Violent
Extremism in Burkina
GCERF'S UNIQUE INVESTMENT MODEL
Country
Support Mechanism
GCERF pioneers a unique model of investment designed to promote a whole-of-society approach and ensure the sustainability of our programmes. Under this model, in each partner country, we support national governments in establishing a steering committee called the Country Support Mechanism (CSM).
GCERF in Burkina Faso is working with the government led by Ministry of Territorial Administration and Mobility, through the country support mechanism, and bilateral and multilateral donors to ensure a coordinated approach to prevention. GCERF works with the Burkinabe government to support the implementation of its national action plan (2026-2030) and invests in local organisations that design and run programmes contributing to stability and resilience.
Key Drivers of Violent Extremism
High levels of youth employment
High levels of youth unemployment remain a significant driver of violent extremism (VE) across the Central Sahel. Limited access to stable employment and livelihood opportunities leaves many young people economically vulnerable and socially marginalised, particularly in rural and conflict-affected areas.
Recurrent farmer-herder conflicts
Competition over increasingly scarce natural resources—particularly land, water, and grazing areas—has intensified due to population growth, climate change, and environmental degradation. In the absence of effective conflict-resolution mechanisms and adequate state presence, It can quickly escalate into violent confrontations. Extremist groups often exploit these tensions.
Longstanding governance-related grievances
Results at a Glance
Key Results
Investment & grant figures updated May 2026 · Programme results updated December 2025
Our Approach
Investment Strategy
in Burkina Faso
Contribute to improvements in the social ecology to create conditions conducive to prevention and resilience-building
