After presenting his credentials to President Ibrahim Traoré on 5 December 2025, Archbishop Éric Soviguidi, Apostolic Nuncio to Burkina Faso and Niger, has been meeting local authorities. Last week, he was received by the Moogho Naaba. the traditional monarch of the Mossi people in Burkina Faso.
Yvette Hien and Vatican News
“Through this initiative, I urge all leaders and moral authorities—including traditional leaders, chiefs, religious leaders, and political authorities—to work together by consulting with one another for the good of the nation and its people,” the Apostolic Nuncio said.
Archbishop Soviguidi made the remarks during a meeting held as part of his courtesy visits and dialogue with key stakeholders in Burkina Faso. Unable to meet individually with all traditional leaders, he and the supreme traditional chief expressed their wish for diverse authorities in Burkinabè society to encourage the pursuit of lasting peace.
Traditional chiefs: pillars of social cohesion
During the meeting, Archbishop Soviguidi commended the unwavering commitment of the supreme authority of the Mossi Empire, as well as that of all the traditional chiefs of Burkina Faso, for demonstrating tolerance, reconciliation, and peaceful coexistence. “Through my visit to the Moogho Naaba, I wish to express my respect for all traditional and customary authorities of Burkina Faso,” he said.
The Apostolic Nuncio believes that traditional chiefs play a crucial role in maintaining stability and act as key mediators in promoting national unity.
Archbishop Éric Soviguidi, Apostolic Nuncio to Burkina Faso and Niger
The example of Pope Leo XIV
His Majesty the Moogho Naaba Baongo thanked the Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, for the Catholic Church’s spiritual and humanitarian attention to Burkina Faso and for the initiative of his representative in the country.
