Ouagadougou: The raising of the colors was marked by the reading of the message from the President of the AES Confederation. The monthly flag-raising ceremony was held on Monday at the Iolonioro prefecture, in the presence of administrative authorities, the Defense and Security Forces (FDS), constituted bodies, and the vital forces of the department.

According to Burkina Information Agency, after the performance of the national anthem, the President of the Special Delegation (PDS) of Iolonioro, Joachin Konkobo, read the message from Captain Ibrahim Traor©, President of Faso and current President of the Confederation of Sahel States (AES). The message commemorated the second anniversary of the AES's creation. In his address dated July 5, 2026, the President highlighted the founding of the AES on September 16, 2023, and its transformation into a Confederation on July 6, 2024. This evolution underscores the commitment of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to foster a shared space of defense, security, and solidarity, emphasizing the sovereignty of the peoples.

Two years after its inception, the AES has achieved significant progress, including enhanced political and military cooperation, increased diplomatic coordination, and strides toward economic integration. The message honored the fighting forces, martyrs, victims of terrorism, and the civilian population for their resilience. Addressing the challenges, the President urged the populace to mobilize, unite, and remain vigilant against external pressures. He reaffirmed the Year II priorities of the Confederation: collective self-defense, economic integration, industrialization, energy and food sovereignty, and local resource transformation.

Following the reading, Chief Warrant Officer Honor© Youmandia Thiombiano, commander of the Rapid Action Surveillance and Intervention Group (GARSI), encouraged the population to maintain their collaboration with the FDS by reporting any suspicious activities that could aid in the locality's security.

In closing, the President of the Special Delegation praised the Defense and Security Forces for their efforts in securing the national territory. He urged the population to continue supporting by providing useful information and called for prayers for the protection of the forces deployed in the field.