In an inspiring move toward economic self-reliance, Burkina Faso’s President, His Excellency Captain Ibrahim Traoré, has overseen the construction of three tomato processing factories in less than two years
The first factory, operated by Société Burkinabè de Tomates (SOBTO), opened in Bobo-Dioulasso on November 30, 2024.
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Shortly after, on December 16, 2024, the second plant, managed by Société Faso Tomates (SOFATO), was inaugurated in Pognongo, Yako.
A third facility in Tenkodogo is in development, with $2.4 million already committed by the Agency for the Promotion of Community Entrepreneurship (APEC), although it is not yet operational as of April 2025.
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These factories are transformative, designed to process hundreds of tons of tomatoes daily into paste, puree, and sauces under brands like A’diaa, helping to reduce the nation’s reliance on imported tomato products.
Burkinabè citizens have been invited to invest amounts ranging from 10,000 CFA francs (about $16) to 1 million CFA francs (roughly $1,600) to own shares in these ventures.
This “popular shareholding” model, promoted by President Traoré, has empowered everyday people—farmers, teachers, and small business owners to become stakeholders in their country’s development.
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The Bobo-Dioulasso plant raised 80% of its $11.9 million cost through these contributions, with the state covering the remaining amount.
The impact has been significant: not only have these factories been established, but they have also created jobs—180 direct jobs and around 3,000 indirect jobs in Bobo-Dioulasso, with similar benefits expected in Yako.
