Burkina Faso’s tourism sector generated close to CFA100 billion in revenue in 2025, highlighting its resilience despite a still fragile security environment.
The figure, confirmed by the minister in charge of the sector, Gilbert Ouédraogo, is based on data relayed by Burkina Yawana.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Dounia Hotel in Kaya on Saturday, April 4, 2026—around 100 kilometres from Ouagadougou—the minister specified that tourist accommodation establishments (ETH) alone generated nearly CFA74 billion in 2025.
According to data from the Directorate General of Tourism, this figure includes direct spending by visitors on accommodation, both domestic and international. The data, collected monthly from ETH operators in line with existing regulations, provides a detailed picture of sector performance.
Additional revenue came from travel and tourism operators (OVT), estimated at just over CFA24 billion. Combined, ETH and OVT contributions reached approximately CFA98.6 billion for the year 2025.
This performance represents a notable increase compared to 2024, when total sector revenue stood at CFA90.3 billion, including CFA67.2 billion from accommodation establishments. The growth is attributed in part to a rise in overnight stays and higher average spending per visitor, despite only a modest increase in overall arrivals.
Domestic tourism remains a key pillar, accounting for 78% of the 630,379 visitors recorded in 2025—equivalent to 491,576 national tourists compared to 138,803 international visitors. This trend has been supported by policies promoting local tourism and the staging of cultural events.
Despite ongoing security challenges, the outlook remains positive. For 2026, the authorities are projecting revenues to exceed CFA100 billion, with estimates reaching CFA105 billion, driven by the continuation of current trends.
HO/te/sf/lb/as/APA