249 Firefighters Graduate from National School Ready to Serve Burkina Faso

BOBO-DIOULASSO – The National Firefighters School in Bobo-Dioulasso celebrated the graduation of the 21st promotion of firefighters, named ‘Abnegation’, on Friday, February 16, 2024. The ceremony marked the culmination of rigorous training for 249 student firefighters, ready to undertake their duties across Burkina Faso.

According to Burkina Information Agency, Blaise Waongo, the promotion began their journey on July 2, 2023, initially comprising 250 students who underwent six months of preliminary military training at the Armed Forces Training Group (GIFA). The training concluded with 249 graduates, including 25 women, after one resignation was officially accepted by the military hierarchy.

Commander Waongo highlighted that the training aimed to instill a military spirit, enhance physical conditioning, and prepare the trainees for the challenges of firefighting and national security. He expressed confidence in the graduates’ readiness to “serve or die for the security of our country,” embodying the spirit of their promotion name, ‘Abnegation’.

“They can be sure that the training they have received will enable them to hold their various positions. Both within fire units and in combat, they can liberate Burkina Faso,” Waongo stated, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the training which included first aid, swimming, and firefighting techniques.

Waongo’s message to the new firefighters was one of encouragement, urging them to approach their duties with courage and dedication. He assured them that the skills acquired during their training would be instrumental in their future missions, both in firefighting and in broader national defense roles.

Colonel Commander Naon Daba, the battalion chief, expressed gratitude towards the military and firefighting hierarchy for their support in the successful training of the new firefighters. Promotion delegate Manacé Lakoandé shared insights into the challenging but rewarding training process, highlighting the diverse skills learned, from first aid to firefighting.

The graduation of the 21st promotion of firefighters in Bobo-Dioulasso represents a significant addition to Burkina Faso’s firefighting and emergency response capabilities, with the new graduates poised to contribute to the safety and security of the nation.