Ouagadougou: Lieutenant-Colonel Karim Ouedraogo has officially taken command of the 4th Gendarmerie Legion, pledging to fulfill his duties with unwavering loyalty and dedication. During the installation ceremony held in Dori, he assured that he would "not betray nor dishonor" the trust placed in him, emphasizing his commitment to generational duty.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the ceremony was attended by the Chief of Staff of the National Gendarmerie, Issa Yaguibou, along with numerous administrative, customary, religious, civil, and military dignitaries. Appointed in June 2026, Lieutenant-Colonel Ouedraogo succeeds Lieutenant-Colonel Almissi Sawadogo, who has been reassigned to other duties. This change of command signifies a new phase for the National Gendarmerie's efforts in the Liptako and Soum regions.
In his inaugural address, Lieutenant-Colonel Ouedraogo expressed profound gratitude towards the Chief of Staff for entrusting him with this responsibility. He reaffirmed his determination to fully support the National Gendarmerie's mission by investing himself wholeheartedly in its objectives. He emphasized the importance of collaboration and commitment from all staff members to tackle the nation's security challenges effectively.
Lieutenant-Colonel Ouedraogo pledged to ensure the safety of people and property within his jurisdiction while contributing to national and international gendarmerie missions. He commended the exceptional work of his predecessors and paid tribute to the National Gendarmerie personnel engaged in counter-terrorism efforts. Acknowledging the daily sacrifices of the fighting forces, he vowed to uphold the legacy of his predecessors in the name of generational duty.
Born on December 7, 1985, in Gagnoa, Republic of Ivory Coast, Lieutenant-Colonel Ouedraogo is a decorated officer with several university and military qualifications. His accolades include the title of Knight of the Order of the Stallion, the Military Medal of Honour, the Commemorative Medal with Mali clasp, and the United Nations MINUSMA medal. Taking the helm of the 4th Gendarmerie Legion, Lieutenant-Colonel Ouedraogo showcases his dedication to continuing the disciplined and duty-bound work of his predecessors, aiming to enhance the National Gendarmerie's effectiveness in the Liptako and Soum regions, ultimately ensuring the security and defense of the Nation's interests.