On the eve of 2026, Burkina Faso’s President Ibrahim Traoré reviewed the year 2025, marked by increased mobilization in the face of security challenges. The Head of State paid a vibrant tribute to the National Armed Forces, the Internal Security Forces, and the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP), whose commitment was crucial in preserving the country’s resilience.
In his address to the nation on December 31, President Ibrahim Traoré outlined Burkina Faso’s security roadmap for 2026. It plans for the intensification of operations up to border areas with the aim of durably eradicating the threat. He particularly emphasized strengthening operational capacities and increased involvement of the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP).
“2025 was a year when many projects began. Considerable efforts were made in recruiting personnel across the various forces. Also, several training programs were initiated within our own armies in an endogenous manner, which allowed for the creation of many specific units doing remarkable work on the battlefield.”
The President of Burkina Faso, Ibrahim Traoré, reviewed the year 2025, highlighting the country’s security and humanitarian situation and stressing the significant mobilization in the face of persistent challenges. On the operational front, 2025 was characterized by waves of massive recruitment, specific training, the creation of specialized units, and the acquisition of strategic and heavy equipment. The flagship operation “Lalmassga” (“ice wall”) notably enabled the armed forces to regain control of several dozen localities serving as terrorist hideouts.
“This bold operation allowed our combat forces to establish themselves in the enemy’s sanctuary, in places where, for five or six years, it was believed impossible to reach; our units set foot there and reconquered these areas. These operations thus led to the reconquest of several dozen villages.”
According to Ibrahim Traoré, the tactical successes of the Burkinabè armed forces in 2025 allowed for the establishment of a solid national force presence within enemy strongholds and strengthened state control over the territory.