The African Public Relations Association (APRA), represented by its Secretary-General, Omoniyi Ibietan, Ph.D., fnipr, has strongly condemned the recent terror attack in the town of Barsalogho in the Sanmatenga Province of Burkina Faso. The attack resulted in numerous fatalities and left many more injured, highlighting a disturbing trend of escalating violence in the region.
APRA expressed grave concern over the growing frequency of terror attacks in Burkina Faso and across other parts of Africa. The association, which serves as a collective body for public relations practitioners across the continent, called for an immediate end to all forms of violence, particularly against unarmed civilians. APRA emphasized the need for dialogue and peaceful negotiations as more constructive methods for conflict resolution, warning that continued violent actions only lead to further devastation across the continent.
Dr. Ibietan also highlighted other pressing humanitarian crises currently facing Africa. He pointed to the ongoing mpox epidemic in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which has resulted in the deaths of over 500 individuals. The epidemic, caused by the monkeypox virus, has made the DRC a focal point of a major health crisis. Additionally, the recent collapse of the Arba’at Dam in eastern Sudan has caused severe flooding, affecting approximately 70 communities and disrupting telecommunication infrastructure and other essential utilities.
In light of these challenges, APRA reiterated its call for comprehensive and responsible dialogue among African state actors and stakeholders. The association urged the World Health Organization (WHO) to renew and strengthen its collaboration with the DRC government and its citizens to combat the mpox epidemic, which remains a significant global health threat.
APRA stands in solidarity with the governments and citizens of Burkina Faso, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Sudan. The association extended its condolences to those who have lost loved ones and expressed hope for the swift recovery of those injured and displaced by these tragedies. APRA’s message underlines the urgent need for unity, proactive communication, and concerted efforts to address and mitigate these and future crises on the continent.
