Ouagadougou: On the occasion of the New Year celebration, the governor of the Sahel region, Abdoul Karim Zongo, sent a message of greetings to the people, marked by a call for peace, solidarity, and the strengthening of social cohesion, in a still challenging security context. In his message, the governor noted that the past year had been particularly difficult for the Sahel region.
According to Burkina Information Agency, security and humanitarian challenges had severely tested the resilience of the population and their commitment to living together in harmony. Despite this context, the regional authority commended the remarkable resilience of the communities, their strong sense of solidarity, and their unwavering commitment to peace. These values, he emphasized, constitute the strength and dignity of the people of the Sahel.
Mr. Zongo paid a vibrant tribute to the Defense and Security Forces (FDS) as well as the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP), praising their tireless commitment, their bravery, and the sacrifices made for the protection of the population and the preservation of the integrity of the national territory. According to him, their dedication honors the entire nation and remains an essential pillar in the fight for the return of peace and security to the region.
Addressing the various social strata, the governor expressed a special thought for women, whom he described as pillars of families and communities, as well as for young people, bearers of the future and key players in peace. He also recognized the important role of traditional and religious leaders in preserving dialogue, social cohesion, and living together.
The governor also sent a message of compassion and encouragement to internally displaced persons, praising their courage and their ability to maintain hope despite hardships. For the new year, Mr. Zongo invited the population to strengthen their collaboration with the Defense and Security Forces as well as with the administrative authorities.
He stressed the need to establish a climate of trust, vigilance, and shared responsibility in order to consolidate achievements, preserve social cohesion, and create the conditions for a lasting return of peace and security in the Sahel region. The governor offered prayers for the Sahel region, calling for divine protection for its sons and daughters and for a new year marked by peace, restored security, and renewed hope. He wished all the people a happy and prosperous 2026.