The first military region of Burkina Faso celebrated the 66th anniversary of the National Armed Forces (FAN) on November 1, 2026, at the Kaya parade ground. The event was marked by a ceremony where 44 medals were awarded to combat forces for their loyalty, hard work, and determination to defend the country. The medals included 32 military medals, 3 combatant's cross medals, 2 firefighter honor medals, and 7 volunteer defender of the homeland honor medals.
The celebration was held under the theme "National Armed Forces and Military Reserves for a Sovereign Defense of the Homeland." The event featured a troop review and a reading of the speech by the Minister of State, Minister of War and Patriotic Defense, delivered by Lieutenant Colonel Hamado Bambara, commander of the first military region. In his speech, Bambara highlighted that 86,000 people had enlisted in the military reserve in just nine months, demonstrating the population's commitment to supporting the country's objectives.
Lieutenant Colonel Bambara encouraged the population to collaborate with the Defense and Security Forces (FDS) and the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP) in the fight against terrorism. He emphasized that any information or intelligence provided by the population could significantly contribute to the effective fight against terrorists. The recipients of the medals expressed their joy and gratitude for the recognition, with some pledging to redouble their efforts in the fight against terrorism.
Captain Inoussa Sanané, commander of the first Road Security and Intervention Squadron (ESRI I), was one of the medal recipients. He dedicated the medal to all combat forces on the ground who are fighting day and night to keep the country standing. Sanané also honored those who have been injured or fallen in the line of duty. He stressed that the medal was not just a recognition but also a call to greater commitment and determination in the fight against terrorism.
Captain Sanané called on the population to collaborate with the FDS and VDP in the fight against terrorism, emphasizing that the country is indivisible and that every effort must be made to reconquer it entirely. Tidbamba Zallé, a national VDP, also expressed his joy and gratitude for receiving the medal from the Head of State, Captain Ibrahim Traoré. Zallé pledged that the VDP would continue to defend the country's territorial integrity and would not rest until the enemy is defeated.
The event was a testament to the country's commitment to defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The large number of people enlisting in the military reserve demonstrates the population's willingness to support the country's objectives. The celebration also highlighted the importance of collaboration between the population and the FDS and VDP in the fight against terrorism.
The 66th anniversary of the National Armed Forces was marked by a sense of patriotism and commitment to defending the country. The event served as a reminder of the sacrifices made by combat forces and the importance of working together to achieve the country's objectives. The country's leadership has expressed its gratitude to the population for their support and encouraged them to continue working together to build a stronger and more secure Burkina Faso.
Key points
- 86,000 reservists have enlisted in the military reserve in just nine months.
- The celebration was held under the theme "National Armed Forces and Military Reserves for a Sovereign Defense of the Homeland."
- 44 medals were awarded to combat forces for their loyalty, hard work, and determination to defend the country.
