Ibrahim Traoré: How a Young Captain Took Power in Burkina Faso.”

Who is Ibrahim Traoré, and how did a 34-year-old army captain take power in Burkina Faso? Explore his rise, his sovereignty agenda and the debate surrounding his military rule. In this episode of Africa in the Making, we trace Ibrahim Traoré’s journey from student and soldier to Burkina Faso’s head of state following the September 2022 coup. We examine the security crisis behind his rise, the departure of French troops, Burkina Faso’s partnership with Mali and Niger through the Alliance of Sahel States, and their departure from ECOWAS. We also explore why supporters compare Traoré with Thomas Sankara—and why critics raise concerns about political freedoms, accountability and prolonged military rule. Beyond the speeches and viral videos, what does his leadership mean for the people of Burkina Faso? Subscribe to Africa in the Making for stories explaining the people, decisions and events shaping Africa. What should be the most important measure of Traoré’s leadership: security, living standards, political freedoms—or all three? Share your thoughts below. #IbrahimTraore #BurkinaFaso #AfricanPolitics.