Burkina Faso was already facing a complex humanitarian and security crisis for the five years at least when COVID-19 arrived in the country, with the first case notified on March 9, 2020..

Growing violence and insecurity due to mounting insurgent armed groups have affected 2,2 million people and the displacement of over one million civilians. As populations have fled conflict-affected areas, the demand for health services has continued to grow while attacks have decreased the number of functioning health facilities. In September 2020, 95 health facilities were closed which represents 8,5% of the infrastructure in the 6 regions affected by insecurity. The provision of quality health services has been hindered by a weak health system marked with poor data and low-quality comprehensive emergency health service including COVID-19 response.

"WHO's support to the country has included so far: up to date partners with evidences on the new virus and COVID-19 disease dynamic at global and regional level, logistics and supply chain, deployment of Epidemiologist consultants to support national response in setting comprehensive surveillance activities; Infection Prevention and Control, Risks Communication and Community Engagement as well as security assessment to help teams get to hard-to-reach parts of the country. WHO helped the country strengthen its capacities at every level,” Dr Diarra-Nama says.