Courtesy visit by the United States Ambassador to the Burkinabe employers’ organization

On 21 May 2026, Mr. Idrissa NASSA, President of COGEF, received H.E. Ms. Joann M. LOCKARD, Ambassador of the United States to Burkina Faso, as well as members of her economic section, for a courtesy visit.

On this occasion, the COGEF President was accompanied by Ms. Nadège ZONGO, Secretary-General; Mr. Hammadoun DICKO, President of COGEF for Liptako; Dr. Désiré NAKOULMA, Secretary in charge of Economic and Financial Affairs; Professor Issa COMPAORE, Secretary in charge of Education, Employment and Vocational Training; and Mr. Achille OUEDRAOGO, Secretary in charge of youth entrepreneurship promotion.

In her remarks, H.E. the Ambassador stated that this visit was part of an effort to strengthen ties with the Burkinabe private sector, with a view to building a shared, sustainable strategic vision. She also presented the main outcomes of the SelectUSA 2026 forum, held from 3 to 6 May 2026 and dedicated to promoting investment in the United States.

In response, Mr. Idrissa NASSA welcomed the initiative and expressed his appreciation for the interest shown in the Burkinabe private sector. He reaffirmed COGEF’s readiness to work toward stronger, mutually beneficial economic cooperation. Discussions then focused on the prospects for economic cooperation between business leaders from both countries, technology transfer in the industrial sector, and the difficulties encountered in obtaining business visas.

The two parties agreed to continue and strengthen this cooperation dynamic.