Bobo-Dioulasso: On behalf of the Head of State, Prime Minister Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel OUEDRAOGO presided over the official graduation ceremony of the first class of the special contingent of the National School of Water and Forests on Saturday, March 22, 2025. This exceptional recruitment is part of the dynamics of the action plan for stabilization and development, particularly its first pillar dedicated to the fight against terrorism and the restoration of territorial integrity.

According to Burkina Information Agency, this class, named “Lana y’a,” meaning trust in the national Dioula language, consists of 1,938 forestry fighters, including 1,052 men and 886 women. Following 18 months of intensive training, these agents are now prepared to be deployed in the field to secure forest areas and actively participate in reclaiming areas occupied by armed bandits.

This special recruitment, authorized by the Council of Ministers on February 15, 2023, aims to integrate 4,000 agents over three years, starting with an initial workforce of 2,000 agents in 2023. The theme of this initiative, “Contribution of Water and Forests to the reconquest of the national territory and the securing of forest areas,” signifies a shift in the role of the water and forestry corps within the national strategy for securing the territory.

In his address, the Prime Minister acknowledged the courage and commitment of the new recruits, emphasizing their importance in regaining the integrity of the national territory and addressing the humanitarian crisis. He urged them to act with dignity, loyalty, and professionalism.

According to the Minister of the Environment, Water and Sanitation, Roger BARO, measures have been established to ensure that this first contingent of water and forestry personnel can effectively execute its missions on the ground.