The Ivoirian Gendarmerie has welcomed 1401 new recruits, including 84 women, at a ceremony held at the Gendarmerie School in Toroguhé. The recruits completed 74 days of basic training and were presented with the national flag. This marks an important milestone in their military career and their first exposure to the values, requirements, and traditions of the institution. The ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials, including the Commander-in-Chief of the Gendarmerie, General Alexandre Apalo Touré.
The new recruits are part of the 2026-2028 promotion of the Ivoirian Gendarmerie. During their training, they acquired the basics of military life, including discipline, rigor, loyalty, and dedication. General Touré emphasized that being a gendarme requires not only professional competence but also integrity, conduct, and respect for republican principles. He reminded the recruits that the Gendarmerie is a respected institution within the Ivoirian defense and security apparatus, known for its fidelity, discipline, and respectability.
General Touré urged the new recruits to embody the values of the Gendarmerie at all times and in all circumstances. He stressed that their primary responsibility is to ensure the security of the state, populations, and property. The Commander-in-Chief warned the recruits against behavior that could compromise their career or tarnish the image of the institution, citing recent cases of recruits being dismissed due to incompatible behavior.
The General specifically warned against the consumption of alcohol and narcotics, stating that any tolerance for such behavior would not be accepted. He announced that surprise checks could be conducted at any time to ensure the recruits' good behavior and discipline. This, he explained, is to maintain the recruits' personal balance and prevent deviations incompatible with their status.
The ceremony was attended by numerous administrative, judicial, political, and military authorities, as well as parents of the recruits. The event concluded with a military parade, marking the end of the first phase of the recruits' training. The new gendarmes will now proceed to further training and integration into the institution.
General Touré's address emphasized the importance of exemplary behavior for gendarmes. He stressed that respect for the state, the national flag, and the institution's traditions should guide their actions and commitment to serving the nation. The Commander-in-Chief's message aimed to instill a sense of responsibility and duty in the new recruits.
The Ivoirian Gendarmerie's efforts to strengthen its ranks with new recruits are part of its ongoing commitment to national security. The institution continues to emphasize the importance of discipline, integrity, and professionalism among its personnel. The 2026-2028 promotion of the Gendarmerie is expected to play a significant role in maintaining security and stability in Côte d'Ivoire.
Key points
- 1401 new recruits, including 84 women, join the Ivoirian Gendarmerie after completing 74 days of basic training.
