Burkina Faso's Minister of Defense, General Célestin Simporé, has provided an update on the country's fight against terrorism. Speaking to journalists from the Radio nationale du Burkina Faso (RTB Radio) in the Koulsé region, Simporé outlined the progress made by the military in recent years. He attributed this progress to the sacrifices made by defense and security forces, volunteers, and civilians. The minister acknowledged that the war is not yet over but expressed optimism about the future.
According to General Simporé, the situation in Burkina Faso has changed significantly since the introduction of the MPSR 2. He stated that the fear has shifted from the government to the terrorists, citing measures taken to reverse the balance of power. The minister mentioned that certain areas previously inaccessible are now accessible, and populations have been reinstalled, while public administration personnel have returned to several localities.
The Burkinabé military has undergone significant transformations, including a substantial increase in personnel, with the number of soldiers multiplied by four. The General also reported an increase in training for military officers and non-commissioned officers. At the Georges-Namoano military academy, officer promotions have risen from 30-50 students to over 200. For non-commissioned officers, a recent promotion included over 1,200 elements.
The military's reorganization has also led to the creation of six regions, up from three. Additionally, the military has acquired new equipment for the army, air force, and support forces. General Simporé views these changes as a significant transformation of the defense apparatus, achieved in just a few years. The country has made progress in reconquering its territory, with the percentage of reconquered territory increasing from 40% to 75%.
General Simporé emphasized that the remaining 25% of the territory is not necessarily under the control of armed groups but rather areas that are not yet stabilized and secured. The priority is to neutralize the remaining armed elements, stabilize the areas, and allow interior security forces to resume their duties. The minister warned that the evolution of the balance of power does not mean the end of the threat, as the adversary adapts its strategies.
The minister described the war as an evolving process, with both sides planning and adjusting their actions. The objective is to end the conflict as quickly as possible while minimizing human losses. General Simporé highlighted the difficulties faced by the military at the beginning of the war, including a lack of equipment and personnel. He noted that the situation has significantly improved, with each soldier now having access to a weapon and sufficient ammunition.
The creation of 30 battalions in four years is another example of the military's transformation. General Simporé stressed the importance of human factors, such as training, competence, discipline, loyalty, and patriotism, in the military's reform. The minister expressed confidence that the country will soon overcome the terrorist threat.
Key points
- The Burkinabé military has made significant progress in the fight against terrorism, with a substantial increase in personnel and equipment.
- The country has reconquered 75% of its territory, with the remaining 25% not yet stabilized.
- The minister emphasized the importance of human factors in the military's reform.
