Burkina Faso / Security: 96 billion and thousands of volunteers, the people commit to their freedom
The recently communicated figures on the national defense effort go beyond mere military logistics to paint a portrait of an entire nation mobilized. Behind the impressive statistics lies a collective narrative of resilience and patriotic commitment, in which every citizen, to their own measure, contributes to safeguarding the homeland.
The backbone of this effort is, of course, the massive reinforcement of the defense and security forces. The recruitment of 16,000 military personnel of all profiles, complemented by 2,000 police officers, illustrates a strategic will to increase the state’s operational capacity.
But the most powerful symbol of this popular mobilization lies in the commitment of nearly 15,000 Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP).
Their enhanced integration, with the elevation of their Brigade to the status of a full-fledged army, officially consecrates their crucial and sacrificial role.
They embody the visceral link between the population and the defense of the territory, representing communities taking their own security into their own hands.
This momentum is not limited to personnel. It finds its financial counterpart in an unprecedented civic mobilization through the Patriotic Support Fund.
The numbers speak for themselves: collections rose from 175 billion CFA francs in 2024 to over 222 billion in 2025.
Since its launch in 2022, more than 496 billion CFA francs have been freely contributed by the Burkinabe people, from businesses to modest taxpayers.
This resource, born of popular will, is far more than mere funding: it is an act of collective sovereignty.
It reflects a trust and a determination to tangibly support the war effort, jointly bearing the financial burden of the struggle.
Thus, the response of Burkina Faso to the security crisis reveals itself as a unique model. It merges state strategy with formidable citizen energy.
On one side, the state structures, recruits, and integrates. On the other, the people give, commit physically, and support financially.
This combined effort, where the professional soldier stands alongside the volunteer and the patriotic contribution complements the national budget, forges a rare unity of action.
This effort by the Burkinabe people is therefore to be commended. It demonstrates that the strongest defense does not rely solely on arsenals, but on the steadfastness of hearts and the solidarity of actions.
In this trial, the nation rediscovers itself, united by a single objective: to preserve its integrity and build, in the face of adversity, the foundations of its future peace.
Cédric KABORE
