Ibrahim Traoré: The Young Soldier Leading Burkina Faso Through Unrest

Posted on [29-06-2025] | By [Gulab Makwana]

Ibrahim Traore

Ibrahim Traoré

Burkina Faso has seen its share of political turbulence, but few moments have been as defining as the rise of Captain Ibrahim Traoré. At just 37 years old, he stands as one of the world’s youngest leaders and the figure steering his country through a wave of insurgencies, economic challenges, and foreign policy shifts. Here’s a deep dive into the story of a soldier-turned-statesman.

A Humble Beginning in Kéra

Born on March 14, 1988, in the village of Kéra, Mouhoun Province, Traoré’s early life was rooted in modesty. He excelled in school and later studied geology at the University of Ouagadougou. While at university, he joined student organizations like the Association of Muslim Students and the left-wing National Association of Students of Burkina Faso (ANEB), where he became known for defending the rights of his peers.

From Cadet to Captain: The Making of a Soldier

Traoré enlisted in the Burkinabé Army in 2009 and received military training both locally and abroad, including specialized instruction in Morocco. He gained real-world experience through peacekeeping missions in Mali with the United Nations and later returned home to fight against jihadist insurgents in northern Burkina Faso.

Promoted to Captain in 2020, he quickly became a spokesperson for fellow soldiers disillusioned with the lack of proper equipment and government support. His outspokenness would soon become a catalyst for change.

Coup and Rise to Power

In January 2022, Traoré was part of the group that overthrew President Roch Kaboré, installing Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba. But Damiba’s failure to curb growing insurgencies sparked discontent among young officers. On September 30, 2022, Traoré led a second coup and ousted Damiba with support from the elite “Cobra” unit.

Just a few days later, he was declared interim president, taking over as the Head of State and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.

Leading in Crisis: Traoré’s Presidential Challenges

1. National Security and “General Mobilisation”

Under Traoré’s leadership, Burkina Faso has declared a “general mobilisation” to counter jihadist violence. He’s positioned himself as a wartime leader, vowing to reclaim territory lost to militants and refusing to negotiate until the rebels are significantly weakened.

2. Delayed Elections and Extended Rule

Though he initially promised democratic elections by July 2024, Traoré later backtracked, citing security issues. In May 2024, a national consultation extended his mandate by another five years and even permitted him to run in future presidential elections—a move that was widely criticized by opposition parties.

Gold, Jobs, and Economic Control

Recognizing Burkina Faso's reliance on gold, Traoré's administration has taken bold steps in reshaping the sector:

• Gold Refinery Approved (Nov 2023): A national gold refinery is under development to reduce raw exports and increase domestic revenue. It aims to produce 400 kg of gold daily and generate thousands of jobs.

• Small-Scale Gold Export Ban (Feb 2024): Traoré suspended export permits for artisanal gold miners to tackle smuggling and corruption in the sector, pushing for more accountability and formalization.

Breaking Ties with France, Building Bridges with Russia

One of Traoré’s most controversial moves has been his shift in foreign policy. In early 2023, French troops were expelled from Burkina Faso. Traoré stated that the country would pursue “win-win” partnerships with new allies like Turkey and Russia.

Though he denied hiring Russian mercenaries from the Wagner Group, pro-Russian sentiment has visibly increased in the country. Russian troops eventually arrived in January 2024, and the Russian embassy in Ouagadougou has been reopened after more than 30 years.

What’s Next for Burkina Faso?

Ibrahim Traoré's leadership is still unfolding. Supporters view him as a decisive, nationalist reformer trying to reclaim the country's dignity and resources. Critics worry about the indefinite delay of democratic processes and the growing influence of authoritarian allies.

Whether seen as a revolutionary or a military strongman, one thing is certain: Traoré is reshaping Burkina Faso's future—on his own terms.

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