The contrast between Traore’s growing international reputation and the realities inside Burkina Faso has become one of the defining questions of his presidency. Supporters argue that Traore has restored national pride and challenged a system in which Burkina Faso remained politically and economically dependent on external powers. Officials say Burkina Faso has increased investment in agriculture, particularly in staple crops such as rice and maize, while encouraging local manufacturing and processing industries. He came to power promising to reverse the deterioration in security that had plagued Burkina Faso for years. Despite government claims of progress, Burkina Faso remains one of the countries most affected by armed group violence.