This study examines the digitalisation of cadastral procedures in Burkina Faso, focusing on the municipalities of Ouagadougou and Bobo-Dioulasso where these initiatives are currently implemented. Using the concept of rationalisation tension within a qualitative methodological framework, we analyse the concrete actions undertaken and the tensions generated by this digitalisation process. Our findings reveal that cadastral digitalisation encompasses surveying documentation, parcel mapping, building records, archival materials, and the deployment of socio-technical management systems. The analysis identifies key rationalisation tensions, particularly the disconnect between digitalisation objectives and available resources, as well as coordination challenges amongst state technical services. Whilst digitalisation holds transformative potential for cadastral management, our research demonstrates that technological solutions alone cannot address underlying structural issues or resolve conflicts arising from stakeholder strategies.
Zoubere Dialla (Mon,) studied this question.