DÉDOUGOU: The Boucle du Mouhoun region marked Burkina Faso’s 64th Independence Day with ceremonies that honored the contributions of 137 individuals from various sectors. The celebrations included a formal military parade and the awarding of distinctions across several orders.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the recognition ceremony took place on December 11, 2024, in Dédougou, where recipients were honored for their service in different categories. Awards included 25 recipients in the Order of the Stallion, 43 in the Burkinabe Order of Merit, 29 in Specific Orders, and 40 individuals received medals of honor from local authorities.
Governor Babo Pierre Bassinga of the Boucle du Mouhoun region addressed the attendees, paying tribute to those who contributed to the struggle for independence. He highlighted the region’s significant agricultural, fishing, forestry, wildlife, and mining capacities, referring to it as the “cereal and agricultural safe” of Burkina Faso.
Bassinga acknowledged the securit
y challenges facing the region, emphasizing their adverse impact on development. He urged unity among local actors, authorities, defense and security forces, and volunteers to combat terrorism and propel regional growth.
The governor extended congratulations to the honorees, urging them to continue their efforts in their respective fields. Among those recognized was Salifou Ouédraogo, a correspondent for the Burkina Information Agency in the Banwa province, who received a medal of honor for his dedication to journalism in a region previously under terrorist control.
Ouédraogo expressed gratitude for the recognition, viewing it as motivation to maintain high-quality work that benefits the local population. He stated his commitment to continue his efforts in collecting and processing information for the community.