Burkina Faso/ Heightened vigilance urged for the holiday season amid security threats
As 2025 draws to a close—a time traditionally dedicated to celebration, family, and reflection the deteriorating security situation across the Sahel casts a shadow. This festive period is, unfortunately, also identified as a moment when terrorist networks seek to intensify criminal activities, aiming to shatter peace, spread fear during a time of fraternity, and advance their destabilizing agenda.
This reality demands increased and collective vigilance from the Burkinabe people and all communities across the Sahel. Celebration must not mean complacency; that is precisely what our enemies anticipate.
They hope to exploit any lapse in attention brought on by festivities and preparations. We must counter this strategy.
The first line of vigilance is individual and communal. Be alert to your surroundings note unusual movements or objects in neighborhoods, villages, markets, and near gathering places.
Security is not solely the task of the Defense and Security Forces (FDS) and Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP).
Every citizen is an essential link in the protective chain. Strengthen social cohesion, know your neighbors, and promptly report any suspicious activity to the authorities. Silence or indifference objectively aids terrorism.
The second vigilance is digital and media-related. During this period, disinformation campaigns and fearmongering may increase on social media.
Do not become involuntary amplifiers of false news or anxiety-inducing rumors. Verify information, prioritize official sources, and refuse to share content of dubious origin or accuracy.
Celebrating with vigilance is not a renunciation of joy it is its protection. It affirms our determination to live freely and together, unbowed by threat.
It honors the sacrifice of those on the front lines who stand guard so life may continue.
Our unity, collective discipline, and refusal to yield to fear are our most powerful weapons.
People of Burkina Faso, brotherly peoples of the Sahel, let this year’s end be a shining testament to our resilience.
Be joyful, but remain on guard. Be united, solidary, and alert. By safeguarding our peace, we protect our sovereignty and build, step by step, the foundations of a true and lasting peace. Season’s greetings in vigilance and fraternity.
Olivier TOE
