Ouagadougou: This Thursday, the daily newspapers in Burkina Faso have prominently featured citizens' reactions to the recent goalless draw between the national football team, the Stallions, and Egypt's Pharaohs in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Alongside sports news, there's significant coverage on the upcoming prohibition of check payments in public administration effective October 1, and discussions from a general assembly focused on decentralization.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the state-run newspaper Sidwaya highlighted the General Assembly on Decentralization with the headline: "General Assembly on Decentralization, for local authorities in line with the demands of sovereignty." The report points out that Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouedraogo views these national conferences as a demonstration of strong political will to empower local authorities in Burkina's governance structure.
The assembly reflects the Head of State's dedication to fostering decentralization that aligns with socio-cultural realities, addresses community needs, and meets the demands of sovereignty, resilience, and structural transformation.
The country also addresses a significant change in public financial operations, noting that from October 1, the use of checks as a means of payment within the Public Administration will be banned. According to the Minister of Economy and Finance, Aboubacar Nacanabo, this decision stems from the recurring inefficiencies in public finance management associated with check payments. Going forward, cash, mobile money, the electronic payment platform Faso Arzeka, and bank transfers will be the authorized payment methods.
The newspaper l'Express du Faso underscores the importance of promoting reliable and traceable transactions that adhere to international public management standards.
Another key issue in the news is the public's reaction to the World Cup qualifier match between the Stallions and the Pharaohs. The newspapers report mixed feelings following the 0-0 draw. Sports consultant Lassina Sory Ouattara commented in l'Observateur Paalga, noting that the Stallions lacked teamwork against the Pharaohs and urged Brama Traore's team to improve for a better chance at qualification.
The private newspaper Le Pays captures a spectrum of opinions, with some expressing disappointment in Brama's leadership, while others find the result both reassuring and educational, providing insights for future improvements.