Burkina Faso / 2026: A new defence force projection to defeat terrorism
In an address to the nation marking the transition to the new year, the President of Burkina Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, outlined a resolute assessment and laid out the prospects for the fight against terrorism in 2026. His speech, serving as both a review and a roadmap, reaffirmed an unwavering determination and sketched out the strategic adaptations intended to durably protect the safety of the population.
The guiding principle remains clear: military and security operations will continue up to the limits of the national borders.
This commitment to pursuing armed groups to their last strongholds symbolizes the state’s will to fully reclaim its territory and ensure its sovereignty.
The objective is unequivocal: to definitively defeat the terrorist threat that has brought mourning and displacement to the Burkinabe people for too long.
To achieve this, President Ibrahim Traoré announced a continued strengthening of operational capabilities.
The national army, the pillar of this fight, will continue to build its power, likely equipping itself with the necessary logistical, intelligence, and strike means for its mission.
Concurrently, the role of the Internal Security Forces (FSI) is being consolidated, underscoring the importance of a comprehensive approach linking military action with securing citizens’ daily lives.
A notable evolution presented concerns the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP).
The mentioned “small change” is in fact significant: it will allow the VDP to project themselves further forward in the field.
This strategic adaptation aims to optimize their role in providing support and detailed terrain knowledge to benefit the armed and security forces.
It recognizes their value in the overall framework while seeking to integrate their actions more closely into the chain of command for increased effectiveness and better coordination.
Beyond concrete measures, this speech served to respectfully salute and express gratitude for the immense efforts of all actors engaged in this struggle.
From the soldier on the front line to the volunteer safeguarding their community, along with the FSI and the entire logistical and moral support chain, every contribution is an essential link in national resilience. The nation recognizes their sacrifices and dedication.
The prospects for 2026 are therefore intended to be both offensive, with extended operations, and integrative, with reinforced synergy between the army, internal security forces, and volunteers.
It is a strategy combining constant military pressure with improved security coverage across the entire territory.
The road remains demanding, but the path traced by the authorities, supported by the courage of its forces and the resilience of the people, fuels hope for a decisive year in reclaiming peace and security for all Burkinabe.
Olivier TOE
