Ouagadougou: More than 600 participants mobilized for the FDS cohesion cross-country race organized by the Defense and Security Forces (FDS) of the Bobo-Dioulasso garrison. The event took place on the evening of Wednesday, July 29, 2026, bringing together participants from the FDS, administrative services, and civil society organizations.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the initiative aimed to strengthen camaraderie, social cohesion, and collaboration between security forces and the population. The 2.5-kilometer route began at the Bobo-Dioulasso Detention and Correctional Center, proceeded to the Bolomakote market, continued along Louveau Avenue, and concluded at the Bolomakote Public Primary School with an aerobics session.

The commander of the 2nd Military Region, Lieutenant Colonel Lassane Porgo, emphasized the activity's role in fostering closer ties between the security forces and citizens. "This activity aims to strengthen the bond between the defense and security forces and the population. It's about getting to know each other better, strengthening brotherhood, and working together for greater effectiveness. As the Head of State indicated, it is through unity, sincerity, and total commitment that we will achieve results. It's also beneficial for the health of all participants," he stated.

Lieutenant Colonel Porgo also encouraged Burkinabe youth to focus on education, work, and the values of peace, solidarity, and patriotism. Evariste Dala, known as Toe, Principal Penitentiary Security Inspector and Commander of the Penitentiary Administration at the Bobo-Dioulasso Court of Appeal, noted that the sporting event contributes to strengthening national unity.

"We need to cultivate this unity between brothers in arms and then between the security forces and the population. We all know the challenge our country faces, so it is necessary to unite to confront this phenomenon," he stated.