Samandeni: The official demobilization ceremony of the first class of conscripted producers of the National Patriotic Service, benefiting the National Service for Development (SND), took place in Samandeni. This significant event marked the completion of training for 219 young Burkinabe, including 163 boys and 56 girls, in various agricultural techniques.
According to Burkina Information Agency, this cohort, named "TI DOGU PO," which translates to "for our nation" in the Gourmanchema language, completed a 12-month comprehensive training program. The curriculum covered essential topics such as the importance of agriculture in Burkina Faso, production techniques, integrated soil fertility management, agroecology, market gardening, and agricultural entrepreneurship and insurance. Additionally, the trainees were instilled with military discipline, civic responsibility, patriotism, and a sense of community spirit.
The ceremony witnessed the presence of notable figures, including Mr. Felix Baye, president of the special delegation of the commune of Bama, who represented the governor of the Guiriko region, Colonel Moctar Haidara Tabore, director general of the SND, and Mr. Desire Sawadogo of NAFASO, who was the sponsor of the event. During the ceremony, class representative Clement Nare expressed gratitude on behalf of his peers from both the Samandeni and Badala centers, highlighting their satisfaction with the training quality while urging authorities to continue supporting them in applying their newly acquired skills.
In his address, sponsor Desire Sawadogo encouraged the young graduates to be diligent and organized producers, resilient in the face of challenges, and committed to agriculture. Colonel Moctar Haidara Tabore lauded the trainees, urging them to transform the land rather than being transformed by it. The ceremony also featured a symbolic presentation of training certificates, with authorities expressing pride in the region's selection for this initiative and urging the graduates to act as role models in their communities.
The event concluded with a visit to a composting pit and a group photograph with the graduates, marking a memorable farewell.