Dédougou:The Dédougou garrison commemorated the 66th anniversary of the National Armed Forces (FAN) with a significant military parade on November 1, 2026. The event, held under the theme "National Armed Forces and Military Reserve for the Sovereign Defense of the Homeland," was led by Lieutenant Colonel Idrissa Sosthène Coulibaly, commander of the 5th Military Region and garrison, with the presence of administrative and traditional authorities from the Bankui region.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the ceremony included a message from the Minister of State, Minister of War and Patriotic Defence, who honored soldiers who have served Burkina Faso with discipline and courage. The minister emphasized that the anniversary takes place amid ongoing efforts against terrorism, highlighting a positive outlook for the fighting forces.
The ceremony paid homage to soldiers who lost their lives in combat and civilian victims of terrorism, with a minute of silence observed in their memory. The minister expressed wishes for a speedy recovery for the injured and reaffirmed national support for bereaved families. He elaborated on the law governing the military reserve, which aims to organize and mobilize skills for a supplementary force, clarifying that not every citizen is expected to become a soldier, but that those meeting the criteria can contribute to national defense.
In a month, over 86,000 individuals registered for the military reserve, aiming for 100,000 by the year's end, with a call for more Burkinabe to join as national defense is a collective duty. The ceremony also featured the decoration of 27 individuals for their exemplary service to the nation. Lieutenant Ousséni Kienou, speaking for the recipients, dedicated the awards to fallen fighters and urged public trust in the Defense and Security Forces.
Lieutenant-Colonel Coulibaly praised veterans and victims of terrorism, expressing compassion for the wounded. He stressed the theme's relevance and encouraged public support for the army and joining the military reserve. Additionally, he announced heightened security operations to enhance state presence regionally and ensure safer living conditions for citizens.
Authorities also visited patients at the Dédougou Military Medical Centre and BIR 10 infirmary, offering support and comfort.
Source Burkina Information Agency