Burkina Faso on Monday celebrated the 66th anniversary of its National Armed Forces in a context marked by security challenges and attempts at destabilization. In a message, President and Head of State Captain Ibrahim Traoré praised the resilience of an army that, he said, is continually strengthening and modernizing to confront threats.
The supreme commander of the National Armed Forces paid tribute to soldiers killed in action, describing their sacrifice as the seed of the country’s freedom.
He also wished a speedy recovery to those wounded in the war of liberation, saluting their commitment and courage.
This year’s theme “National Armed Forces and the Military Reserve for the Sovereign Defense of the Homeland” reflects a major strategic vision.
According to President Traoré, the entry into force of the military reserve marks a shift from defense ensured by an isolated corps to a responsibility shared by the entire nation.
The head of state said national defense no longer rests solely on regular forces but on the mobilization of all citizens.
He reaffirmed the state’s determination to build, in symbiosis with the people, a strong, endogenous and modern army guaranteeing national sovereignty.
That army, he stressed, draws its strength from love of the homeland and the people’s trust.
President Traoré called for a sacred union between defense forces and populations, united in a shared patriotic drive to protect the gains of the Popular Progressive Revolution.
Closing his message, the supreme commander of the armed forces declared: “Force and honor to the National Armed Forces!” He ended with the motto: “Homeland or Death, We Will Win.”
Emile KABORE
