Legislative Approval Marks Key Step in Energy Strategy
Burkina Faso's Transitional Legislative Assembly has unanimously ratified a nuclear cooperation agreement with Russia, signaling a significant advancement in the West African nation's efforts to expand its national energy strategy. The approval came on Friday, November 22, 2025, with all 71 members present voting in favor of the deal during a plenary session chaired by Ousmane Bougouma.
The agreement, originally signed on June 19, 2025, in Saint Petersburg, establishes a framework for comprehensive collaboration in peaceful nuclear technologies. This move is seen as crucial for Burkina Faso, which faces a severe electricity deficit, with estimates indicating that only between 20% and 34.2% of its population has access to electricity.
Scope of the Nuclear Cooperation
The cooperation agreement with Russia's state-owned atomic energy corporation, Rosatom, encompasses several key areas designed to bolster Burkina Faso's energy independence and technological capabilities. These include:
- Construction of civil nuclear infrastructure, including the potential development of a nuclear power plant.
- Transfer of technology and expertise in nuclear energy.
- Training programs for Burkinabe specialists and executives, with some already undergoing instruction in Russia.
- Development of robust radiation safety and regulatory frameworks.
- Implementation of safe practices for radioactive waste management.
- Application of radioisotopes in various sectors such as medicine, agriculture, and industry.
Rosatom CEO Alexey Likhachev and Burkina Faso's Minister of Energy, Yacouba Zabré Gouba, were key signatories to the initial agreement. Minister Gouba described the deal as 'a key milestone in the administrative process toward building the plant,' noting that Rosatom is expected to present a technical and financial proposal for review.
Addressing Energy Shortages and Future Prospects
The initiative follows a request made by Burkina Faso's Transitional President Ibrahim Traoré to Russian President Vladimir Putin in July 2023 for nuclear assistance. A preliminary roadmap for cooperation was established in March 2023, followed by a formal agreement to construct a plant in October 2024. In August 2024, Burkina Faso further solidified its commitment by establishing the Atomic Energy Agency (ABEA) to oversee nuclear industry activities.
While the agreement has been met with enthusiasm by the government, some Members of Parliament raised concerns regarding potential issues such as security, water resource utilization, and environmental impact. Energy Minister Gouba assured that these aspects would be thoroughly addressed during the upcoming feasibility study, which will also determine the specific technology and project sites.
6 Comments
Comandante
While a unanimous vote suggests strong support, it's vital that the feasibility studies genuinely address all concerns, including water usage and security, without political pressure influencing the outcomes.
Muchacha
Finally, a real solution to the energy crisis! This is huge for Burkina Faso's future.
Bella Ciao
It's understandable that Burkina Faso seeks energy independence, but aligning so closely with Russia could bring geopolitical complications and shift dependencies rather than truly eliminating them.
Manolo Noriega
Addressing the electricity deficit is crucial for progress, however, the environmental and security implications of a nuclear plant in a region with limited infrastructure are not to be underestimated.
Fuerza
Partnering with Russia for nuclear? This smells like a dependency trap.
Ongania
This will bring electricity to millions. A game-changer for daily life!