Abstract In many African countries, the upswing in oil prices is one factor that favours the adoption and implementation of a national biofuel policy. This trend has a major impact on state budgets and domestic trade balances, while also limiting the access of rural inhabitants to modern energy services. Contribution of biofuels in stabilizing the energy sector, influences ongoing negotiations on the global dynamics of climate change, the reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and sustainable development. The question of biofuels as an alternative energy thus depends on international, national and local considerations. Biofuels represent opportunities, e.g., energy independence and security, new national income and employment sources, as well as potential food security problems. African policy makers therefore need to make the right choices to guide the development of biofuel production and use. This article aims to support the development of a biofuel policy by reviewing the latest technical, economic, environmental and social knowledge so as to be able to evaluate the potential and limits of biofuels in Burkina Faso.