In Burkina Faso, 287 gendarmes are honoured for their dedication and bravery
A recognition ceremony took place in Ouagadougou on January 17, 2024, to honor the exceptional work of 287 members of the National Gendarmerie. These law enforcement officers were decorated with various distinctions, including the Military Honor Medal, the Military Medal, the Combatant’s Cross, the Commemorative Medal with Mali clasp, and six other distinctions in the Order of Burkinabe Merit.
Among the recipients, eight were honored with the Military Honor Medal, 48 with the Military Medal, 124 with the Combatant’s Cross, and 101 with the Commemorative Medal with Mali clasp. Eight others received a distinction in the Order of Burkinabe Merit.
During the ceremony, Colonel Kouagri Natama, Chief of Staff of the National Gendarmerie, emphasized that these decorations were a recognition of the dedication and sacrifices made by the gendarmes to ensure the security of people and property, as well as the protection of national territory. According to Colonel Natama, the recipients distinguished themselves throughout the year 2023 and beyond. He expressed the nation’s gratitude to these soldiers who dedicate themselves daily to national security and sovereignty.
Adjudant Madina Nikiéma, in service at the Directorate of Communication and Press Relations at the Ministry of Defense, was honored with the Military Medal. She expressed her gratitude to her hierarchy and dedicated her medal to all the combat forces engaged in the field. Adjudant-Chef Pangati Firmin Siéza, from the motorcycle intervention squadron of the security and intervention group of the gendarmerie, also received the Military Medal. With 21 years of service in the National Gendarmerie, he dedicated this recognition to his command, his comrades fallen in combat, and his family.
This ceremony was an opportunity to encourage all members of the National Gendarmerie to persevere in their commitment and strengthen their actions alongside the armed forces for the protection of national territory.
