An official delegation of Burkina Faso, led by Prime Minister Luc-Adolphe Tiao, began on Monday a two-day visit to Darfur to assess the situation on the ground and to explore ways to enhance Burkina Faso’s support to the African Union - United Nations Mission in Darfur (UNAMID). The delegation, which started its tour in the North Darfur capital of El Fasher, met with Mission officials to discuss UNAMID’s efforts to advance peace and stability in the region.

During the meetings, the Mission’s Officer in Charge, Mohamed Yonis, outlined Burkina Faso’s contribution to the peace process in Darfur and commended the work of the country’s peacekeepers. ”The troops have proved their professionalism and dedication, and have played a pivotal role in implementing our mandate,” said Mr. Yonis.
In an interview with UNAMID Radio, the Prime Minister spoke about the situation in Darfur and noted that, despite an overall improvement, the situation remains complex due to a surge in the number of attacks.

“The international community should put more effort in working with the authorities of the country to collaborate with the Darfuri communities and encourage negotiations to continue with the rebel movements,” said Mr. Tiao, who emphasized the importance of the armed movements joining the peace process. “Without them joining in, it will be difficult to stabilize Darfur,” he said. “There is the need for other countries to cooperate and contribute to the effort to solve this conflict so that Sudan can go back to peace.”

Burkina Faso has been contributing to the peace efforts in Darfur since 2008, with more than 800 troops on the ground, operating in three locations in West and Central Darfur.