Pô: Military Academy in Nahouri Celebrates New Cadets’ Presentation to the Flag
PÔ — In a ceremony that marks a significant milestone in the careers of young military cadets, the Georges Namoano Military Academy in Pô, Nahouri, witnessed the official presentation of the flag to its newest members on April 5, 2024. Lieutenant-Colonel Michel Armand Ouédraogo, Commander of the schools and training centers of the Army, presided over the event, symbolizing the end of the initiation period for the cadets and their formal entry into the ranks of the national armed forces.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the ceremony showcased the presentation to the flag of 137 active student officers of the 24th promotion, 62 specialist student officers of the 14th promotion, and 63 student officers from the 8th promotion of cadet officers. Among these were 11 female personnel from eleven African countries in the 24th promotion, 07 female personnel of Burkinabè nationality in the 14th promotion, and 04 female personnel of Burkinabè nationality in the 8th promotion, all from the prestigious Georges Namoano Military Academy (AMGN) of Pô.
The event was graced by regional authorities, including the Secretary General of the Center-South region, Ouo Abibata Bamouni/Traoré, emphasizing the importance of the ceremony in the military and regional community. The presentation to the flag not only signifies the completion of the cadets’ introductory training but also represents their commitment to serve their countries with dedication and to uphold the honor of the flag, even at the risk of their lives.
The ceremony also featured the tradition of the wearing of loops, a symbolic act where the new cadets are recognized by their seniors from the 23rd promotion. This act reinforces the continuity and camaraderie within the armed forces, connecting generations of military personnel through shared values and commitments.
Lieutenant-Colonel Ouédraogo took the opportunity to commend the AMGN staff for their dedication and offered words of encouragement and advice to the newly inducted officer cadets. Highlighting the diverse backgrounds of the cadets, the event celebrated the inclusion of 25 doctors among the specialist student officers and participants from countries across Africa, including Benin, Congo-Brazzaville, Cameroon, Djibouti, Guinea Conakry, Mali, Senegal, Chad, Togo, and the Central African Republic.
This ceremony underscores the critical role of the Georges Namoano Military Academy in preparing the next generation of military leaders, ready to serve their nations with honor and distinction.