Burkina Faso: The Head of State, meticulous about the country’s Air Force
In the wake of his acts of encouragement to his men in the field, Captain Ibrahim TRAORE, Head of State and Supreme Commander of the national armed forces, visited Air Base 511 in Ouagadougou on Friday 18 August 2023. The aim was to pay tribute to the members of the Air Force for their efforts and dynamism, and to encourage them to redouble their efforts as part of the operations to reconquer the territory of Burkina Faso.
About the issue of the current functioning of the Air Force as part of the fight against terrorism, the Head of State had an initial exchange with Lieutenant-Colonel Christian OUATTARA, Chief of Staff of the Air Force, as well as with other officers.
President Ibrahim Traoré then inspected the air Force fleet and maintenance facilities, while taking time to talk to staff.
The Head of State expressed his gratitude to the personnel of the Air Force, saying that he was aware that they spared no effort, especially as they were in demand everywhere.
The Head of State was keen to congratulate them on their hard work, as their intentions cover all areas, whether in support of the defence and security forces or in assisting the population.
President Ibrahim Traoré expressed his understanding of the pressure the army is under in the fight against terrorism, taking into account the challenges in terms of human resources and equipment.
To this end, he said that directives had been issued to enable the Air Force to improve the management of its human resources in order to better meet its operational challenges.
He also emphasised that air capabilities were being strengthened to increase the effectiveness of the Air Force in its various missions.
For the time being, the Head of State of Burkina Faso encouraged the personnel to show courage in anticipation of the challenges ahead.
In particular, President Ibrahim Traoré left a message of support and blessing for the air force in his guest book: «To you airmen, for the sacrifice you have made day and night to support and sustain the forces engaged, to support the civilian population, the entire nation is indebted to you. Thank you for this. May Almighty God protect you in your noble missions».
Olivier TOE
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