Location: Ouagadougou and Bobo-Dioulasso
Event: Demonstrations in Ouagadougou and Bobo-Dioulasso on February 5, 2022
Demonstrations are expected to take place in Ouagadougou, on February 5, 2022 in support of the new Government of Burkina Faso. The demonstrations, hailed as “The Grand March,” are expected to begin at 8:00 am with no planned end time, and may occur throughout Ouagadougou. Counter-protests may also spontaneously develop at other locations in Ouagadougou throughout the weekend.
Counter-new Government of Burkina Faso protests in Bobo-Dioulasso are also expected to occur on February 4 and February 5.
Expect roadblocks or large groups of demonstrators in downtown Ouagadougou and surrounding areas. Exercise caution when in the vicinity of any large gatherings or protests. Demonstrations intended to be peaceful can quickly turn confrontational and escalate into violence. Be alert, remain aware of your surroundings, and stay informed of local media reports. Be prepared, and ensure you have a supply of food, water, and first aid items at your home to last three days in case the situation requires you to shelter-in- place. If you have a vehicle, ensure it is at least half full of fuel.
Avoid risking your safety to take photographs or videos. Attempts to take videos or photographs of demonstrations may attract attention and antagonize the crowd.
Actions to Take:
- Avoid the areas of the demonstrations.
- Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.
- Monitor local media for updates.
- Keep a low profile.
Assistance:
- U.S. Embassy Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
(226) 25 49 53 00
OuagaACS@state.gov
- State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444