Abu Dhabi:Camp Naaba-Koom II The Republican Guard of Burkina Faso has successfully completed its inaugural fish harvest of African catfish at Camp Naaba-Koom II. This initiative is part of the broader vision for national sovereignty promoted by President and Head of State, Comrade Captain Ibrahim Traoré.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the Republican Guard embarked on this project to achieve self-sufficiency, installing two trial fish ponds with a combined capacity of 160 m³. Supported by Burkina Faso’s National Bureau for Major Projects and the Ministry of Fisheries, the Guard stocked the ponds with 5,000 fingerlings, allocating 2,000 to the first pond and 3,000 to the second.

After seven months of diligent care, the results were met with satisfaction. Battalion Commander Jean Ouiya highlighted the symbolic importance of the harvest, noting it reflects the commitment to making Burkina Faso a sovereign state, particularly in agriculture and livestock production. He emphasized the crucial support from the Ministry of Agriculture and the National Bureau of Major Projects in this success.

Dr. Abdourasmane KONATÉ, Minister and Special Advisor to the President on agricultural matters, pointed out the social dimension of the initiative. It provides wounded and disabled soldiers with opportunities to engage in production activities, contributing to national food security.

Warrant Officer Martin KADEBA reported promising harvest results, with catfish reaching an average weight of 3.5 kg, primarily for local consumption. The production unit has been equipped with a smokehouse to dry up to 200 kg of fish daily, ensuring sustainability.

This project is part of a larger effort to implement similar initiatives across 13 barracks, including livestock projects such as chicken coops and pigsties. The success at Camp Naaba-Koom II underscores the Burkinabe army's dedication to national production and food self-sufficiency.