Burkina Faso has marked a significant milestone in its digital journey with the launch of its first-ever virtual digital fair, Faso Digital 2025. an innovative platform designed to showcase the nation’s technological creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. The event, which began on October 18, 2025, in Ouagadougou, is taking place entirely online through an immersive digital environment developed by LeFaso.net, the country’s trailblazing online media platform.
Held under the theme “Innovating to Rebuild: Digital Technology at the Service of a Resilient Burkina Faso,” Faso Digital 2025 reflects the country’s determination to strengthen its digital ecosystem and foster collaboration among innovators, researchers, and entrepreneurs.
Dr. Cyriaque Paré, founder of LeFaso.net and the driving force behind the fair, emphasized that digital transformation is now a national imperative. He described the event as a platform that celebrates Burkinabè ingenuity, promotes homegrown solutions, and connects innovators at home and abroad. Paré noted that while digital technology is one of the world’s most profitable industries, local investment in the sector remains limited. “The richest people today are not in oil or diamonds,” he said. “They are in digital technology.” He urged financial institutions and investors to take the digital economy seriously and support local innovation.
Representing the President of the Transitional Legislative Assembly, the Third Vice President, Dr. Ousmane Bougouma, highlighted the importance of empowering young innovators to create solutions for the nation’s socio-economic challenges. He called on start-ups, developers, and researchers to “dare to innovate” while encouraging financial partners to invest in digital solutions that will drive inclusive growth.
Presiding over the opening ceremony, the Minister of Digital Transition, Dr. Aminata Zerbo/Sabané, commended the fair as a tangible contribution to Burkina Faso’s digital transformation strategy. She explained that Faso Digital 2025 aligns with the government’s long-term vision of integrating technology into development plans and complements other upcoming initiatives such as Start-Up Day, the AI Competition, and the University Hackathon — all aimed at nurturing innovation and advancing digital literacy.
In a recorded message, the Minister of Communication, Pindgwendé Gilbert Ouédraogo, urged Burkinabè citizens to be creators rather than consumers of technology. He expressed hope that Faso Digital 2025 would inspire a new generation of innovators capable of building solutions by Africans, for Africa.
Representing the Executive Director of the National Office for Major Projects, Bruno Compaoré, the Chief of Staff reiterated the importance of digital tools in promoting sustainable development, improving governance, and reducing inequality.
Running until October 25, Faso Digital 2025 features an engaging program that includes expert panels, masterclasses, and interactive sessions on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, connectivity, digital entrepreneurship, communication, branding, crowdfunding, and e-health. Participants from around the world are connecting through virtual booths, B2B workshops, and a national digital innovation competition.
By combining accessibility, innovation, and collaboration, Faso Digital 2025 is not only transforming the digital landscape of Burkina Faso but also positioning the nation as an emerging hub for African-led digital transformation and sustainable innovation.
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