Burkina Faso's military authorities have announced that over 86,000 individuals have registered as volunteers for the country's reserve forces in less than a month. This development was revealed by General Celestine Simporé, Minister of State and Minister of War and National Defense, during a ceremony marking the 66th anniversary of the country's armed forces. The event took place in the capital city of Ouagadougou.
The goal is to reach 100,000 reserve soldiers by the end of 2026, with only 14,000 more volunteers needed to achieve this target. According to General Simporé, the aim is not to convert every citizen into a soldier but to utilize the skills and abilities of volunteers in defending the country. He praised the public's response since the registration process began and encouraged various professional and social groups to participate.
The reserve forces are divided into two categories: the first comprises former military personnel, veterans of security forces, and former volunteers for national defense, while the second includes citizen volunteers, some of whom may not have prior military training. Reserve soldiers can be called upon in cases of national security threats, armed conflicts, security crises, and natural disasters, as well as to provide operational, administrative, and technical support to the military.
The establishment of the reserve forces is based on a law passed by the Transitional Legislative Assembly on May 26, 2026, which regulates citizens' participation in defense and support operations. Burkina Faso has been facing attacks from armed groups operating in large areas of the country for several years. The military authorities also rely on "Volunteers for the Defense of the Country" alongside the regular army.
The ceremony marking the armed forces' anniversary was attended by the President of the Transitional Legislative Assembly, representing Captain Ibrahim Traoré, the country's leader. The event included the decoration of dozens of military personnel and volunteers, as well as a visit to wounded soldiers at a hospital. The reserve forces' establishment is seen as a significant step in enhancing the country's defense capabilities.
General Simporé emphasized that the reserve forces will play a crucial role in supporting the military in various operations. He also highlighted the importance of citizen participation in national defense, encouraging people from all walks of life to join the reserve forces. The registration process for volunteers is ongoing, with the goal of strengthening the country's security and defense infrastructure.
With 86,000 volunteers already registered, Burkina Faso is making significant progress toward achieving its goal of 100,000 reserve soldiers. The country's military authorities are optimistic about reaching the target by the end of 2026, which would enhance the country's ability to respond to security challenges and threats.
Key points
- Over 86,000 volunteers have registered for Burkina Faso's reserve forces in less than a month.
- The goal is to reach 100,000 reserve soldiers by the end of 2026.
- The reserve forces will support the military in various operations, including national security threats and armed conflicts.
