ÖJAB in Burkina Faso
Support and Vocational Training for Children and Young People
ÖJAB has been active in development cooperation (DC) with the West African country of Burkina Faso (formerly: Upper Volta) since 1961. Currently, ÖJAB supports the training of impoverished children and young people in technical professions on the one hand and measures to improve water and sanitation services on the other.
THE Situation in Burkina Faso
EDUCATION AGAINST POVERTY
The West African country Burkina Faso is one of the least developed countries in the world.
More than 40% of the population lives below the poverty line of $1.90 per day. Burkina Faso has hardly any natural resources.
Agriculture has to struggle with drought and soil erosion. The change in climate in recent years has exacerbated the situation for the rural population: food crises occur frequently. The geographical location as a landlocked country contributes to the fact that trade and access to international markets are made more difficult by higher transport costs.
FUTURE THROUGH EDUCATION
In many cases the difficult situation of Burkina Faso can also be attributed to the low level of education. Despite positive developments in the education sector, only about one third of the population can read and write. Only just under 60% of children complete the six-year primary school. Secondary schools are rarely attended. The reason for this is usually high school fees, which large families cannot afford. Without access to secondary education, young people usually have little future prospects.
LACK OF WATER AND SANITATION
A further challenge in Burkina Faso lies in water and sanitation. The UNDP Progress Report 2010 showed positive developments in the supply of drinking water in cities. In rural regions of Burkina Faso, however, around 43% of the population still have no or insufficient access to clean drinking water. Added to this are a lack of sewage disposal and a serious lack of sanitary facilities.
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ÖJAB has been supporting development work for West Africa with its projects for decades. On the following pages you will find a selection of completed ÖJAB projects in the field of development cooperation.