The United Nations’ World Food Programme (WFP) has suspended flights to the northwestern Burkina Faso town of Solle following an explosion near a chartered helicopter that injured a crew member and a government official.
The blast occurred shortly after the helicopter landed on Tuesday, and an investigation is underway to determine the cause.
Despite the helicopter sustaining minor damage, it has been safely relocated, and the injured individuals are receiving medical care.
The WFP has condemned the incident and called on all parties to adhere to their obligations under International Humanitarian Law, emphasizing the protection of aid workers and humanitarian assets.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by humanitarian organizations in delivering aid to vulnerable populations in conflict-affected areas.
The WFP is working to reach over 300,000 people in Burkina Faso during the lean season, which runs from June to August, when families’ food stocks are typically exhausted. Burkina Faso, currently under military rule following two coups in 2022, continues to grapple with violent insurgency linked to groups associated with al Qaeda and Islamic State.
In August 2023, a WFP helicopter transporting food assistance to the northern town of Djibo came under attack, although no passengers or crew were injured
