In Burkina Faso, the government and the United Nations system pay tribute to the 37 Burkinabe soldiers killed in peacekeeping operations

On Thursday, May 30, 2024, in observance of the International Day of UN Peacekeepers celebrated every May 29, members of the Burkinabe government and the United Nations system in Burkina Faso gathered at Place de la Nation to honor the 37 Burkinabe peacekeepers who lost their lives in peacekeeping operations.

The commemoration began with a wreath-laying ceremony in memory of the fallen soldiers.

Among them, two will be posthumously decorated in New York for their bravery and dedication.

Alain Akapji, the interim Resident Representative of the UN system in Burkina Faso, emphasized the crucial role of peacekeepers in various aspects of peace operations: mediating between conflicting parties, stabilizing regions, ensuring security, protecting civilians, and fostering development.

He praised Burkina Faso’s significant contribution to peacekeeping missions, underscoring the importance of continued investment in conflict prevention and peacebuilding.

Burkina Faso’s consistent involvement in peacekeeping across different continents was highlighted as vital and indispensable.

Brigadier General Kassoum Coulibaly, Minister of State for Defense, recalled Burkina Faso’s major contributions to peacekeeping missions, particularly in Mali.

However, due to the internal security situation, the country had to withdraw most of its troops.

Unfortunately, we have lost brave soldiers in these international peace endeavors”, he lamented.

He also stressed the need to reconsider Burkina Faso’s future participation in such operations.

We must ask ourselves: Are we truly participating for peace, or are we being called into already ignited situations? These are reflections we must have to guide our future involvement,” he added.

Instituted in 2002, this day honors the civilians and military personnel who have participated in peacekeeping operations, recognizing the sacrifices of those who lost their lives.

This year, Burkina Faso pays tribute to its 37 heroes while reflecting on the implications and future goals of its participation in global peacekeeping missions.

Papa IBRAHIMA

 

 

Posts Grid

NBA/ Pelicans triumph over Wizards, secure back-to-back wins

The New Orleans Pelicans cruised past the Washington Wizards, 110-98, on Sunday night, marking their second consecutive victory in a home-and-home series between the NBA’s...

Football/ PSG targets Mohamed Salah with lucrative offer amid contract uncertainty at Liverpool

Mohamed Salah's future at Liverpool has become the subject of intense speculation, as Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) makes a bold move to secure the Egyptian star...

La Liga / Barcelona’s struggles highlight La Liga’s financial fair flay resolve

Barcelona's efforts to secure Dani Olmo's registration for the second half of the season have been dealt another blow, with a second court upholding La...

CHAN 2024: A Stage for new contenders as heavyweight’s miss out

The 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) lineup is set, with 18 teams qualifying after the second round of eliminations. Scheduled from February 1 to 28,...

Football/ Premier League: Arsenal edges past Ipswich to keep title hopes alive

Arsenal secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Ipswich Town at the Emirates Stadium, a crucial win that keeps the Gunners within striking distance of Premier...

Football/ Championship: Watford triumph overshadowed by controversial celebration incident

Watford's thrilling 2-1 Boxing Day victory over Portsmouth took a dramatic turn in the final moments, not for the result, but for a post-goal celebration...

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *