Burkina Faso: Skirmishes at Macron protest in Ouagadougou Nov. 28 /update 2

Event

Skirmishes between security forces and protesters are reportedly occurring as of Tuesday, November 28, in front of Joseph Ki-Zerbo Unviersity, where French President Emmanuel Macron is addressing a group of youths. Protesters also reportedly attacked the French delegation, although not the presidential convoy. Further protests are possible throughout the duration of the visit, scheduled to last until November 29. An increased security presence and related traffic disruptions are likely.

Context

Anti-France protests were scheduled to coincide with Macron’s visit to denounce what some consider to be looting of natural resources by “imperialist” multinationals, as well as the French military presence in the country and the CFA franc as the national currency.

Advice

Individuals in Burkina Faso are advised to avoid all demonstrations due to risk of further violence and anticipate potential transportation disruptions in the immediate area of any public gatherings.

On a separate note, due to the serious threats of terrorism and kidnapping, individuals present in Burkina Faso are strongly advised to be discreet regarding personal details, particularly information concerning nationality, employment, family, etc. Individuals are also advised to avoid public events and places frequented by Westerners, to remain vigilant at all times (especially in local markets, now used by terrorists as recruitment grounds), and to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities. A number of Western governments advise against all travel to areas within 50 km (30 mi) of the Malian border above the Dori-Niangoloko line. Nonessential travel to the western city of Bobo-Dioulasso and border regions of Tapoa province is also advised against due to unstable security conditions along the border.