Migration from Burkina Faso to northern Côte d’Ivoire in the context of climate change

This case study looks at migration from Burkina Faso. It aims to understand how climate change influences the migration patterns and settlement experiences of Burkinabè living in northern Côte d’Ivoire. The study draws on qualitative interviews with 56 Burkinabè respondents in Korhogo, Ouangolodougou and Ferkessédougou. These are three secondary cities in the Savanes district.

More than 4 million people from Burkina Faso live in Côte d’Ivoire, reflecting one of the most deeply rooted traditions of migration in West Africa. Most follow patterns of long-term settlement, often spanning several generations. Since the 1960s, these migrations have helped meet the demand for labour in Côte d’Ivoire, particularly in agriculture.

Based on reporting by RELIEFWEB