The ongoing conflict in the country has severely impacted food security and nutrition, especially for displaced populations. Over 2.7 million people are food insecure, including nearly 300,000 in urgent need of assistance. The inability to access arable land, combined with rising food prices has worsened the crisis, with vulnerable groups—especially children, pregnant women, and the elderly—bearing the brunt of the hardship.

The Archdiocese of Ouagadougou, home to 3.7 million people, has welcomed over 500,000 internally displaced people (IDPs) by the end of 2023, a threefold increase from the previous year. The archdiocese works to restore dignity to these displaced people by focusing on their basic needs, particularly those of women, children, the sick, and the disabled.

Working towards safety and protection for all

For these displaced people, arriving in new environments after fleeing horrors, adapting to a new environment and healing their wounds can be challenging. The Church has an ongoing project in the parish of Saint Mary Consoler of the Afflicted and the Linonghin parish, focusing on food distribution and nutritional intervention for the most vulnerable. This includes food distribution (rice, beans, oil) to both IDPs and host families, as well as educational programs on child feeding and screening for malnutrition. The initiative aims not just to alleviate hunger but to promote long-term health, especially for children under 23 months.

Promoting Social Cohesion and Peace

This project has successfully involved not only Christians but also members from other communities, creating a space of dialogue and understanding among all. Beyond immediate relief, the project intends to foster community cohesion through special events such as Christmas celebrations for the children, sharing activities and knowledge together and promoting a harmonious life as much as possible.  According to ACN in order to keep the peace, it’s essential that the projects are carried out in the name of the Church but benefit everyone, in a multi-faith way. This shows everyone that the Church is not part of the problem, but part of the solution”.

The Archdiocese of Ouagadougou’s efforts are making a real difference, but more is needed. Your support this Christmas can help reach 1,400 additional vulnerable families, provide nutritious food to 200 more children, and continue to foster peace and harmony in the community.