Following the January 23 coup in Burkina Faso, the U.S. government on Monday stopped one of its agencies, the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) from executing any funds under the $450 million compact project.
The MCC is an innovative and independent U.S. foreign assistance agency that is helping lead the fight against global poverty.
The statement stopping their activities released from their headquarters in Washington DC reads: “The U.S. government’s Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) paused activity related to Burkina Faso’s $450 million compact today following the military’s actions against the elected government on January 23.
“Burkina Faso military officers claim to have suspended the constitution and dissolved the government and national assembly. These actions contradict MCC’s commitment to democratic governance and upholding the rule of law – principles that underpin the agency’s rigorous criteria for selection.
“All MCC partner countries are expected to demonstrate an ongoing commitment to these principles to remain eligible for MCC investments. MCC again calls on all parties to pursue a democratic solution while ensuring the safety and security of all Burkinabes.
“MCC first established a partnership with the Government of Burkina Faso in 2005. Following the successful completion of a $480 million compact focused on agriculture, land tenure, roads, and girls’ education in 2014, MCC and the Government of Burkina Faso signed a second, $450 million compact on Aug. 13, 2020, which is designed to strengthen the country’s energy sector.
“Prior to MCC pausing compact activity, the Government of Burkina Faso was on track to launch the compact’s three electricity-focused projects in September 2022.
“The Millennium Challenge Corporation is an independent U.S. government agency working to reduce global poverty through economic growth. Created in 2004, MCC provides time-limited grants and assistance to countries that meet rigorous standards for good governance, fighting corruption and respecting democratic rights.”