In Burkina Faso, President Ibrahim Traoré celebrated his third anniversary as head of state on 28 September 2025. He took stock of his actions, emphasising national security and the country’s independence. The Head of State warned Côte d’Ivoire of regional risks linked to certain armed groups. He reiterated that the rise in power of the army and industrial sovereignty are essential for stability and national defence.
On the occasion of his third anniversary in office, the President of Burkina Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, gave a speech on 28 September 2025 in which he reviewed his actions, emphasising the importance of a sovereign and well-trained army to guarantee the security and independence of Burkina Faso.
We have addressed the country’s security, economic and political issues, carefully analysing each situation. We had an ideology that we began to implement gradually, until last April when it was officially proclaimed as a “revolution”.
IBRAHIM TRAORE, President of the transition
This revolution aims to transform and modernise all aspects of our lives.’ General Ibrahim Traoré also warned Côte d’Ivoire, denouncing a non-aggression pact between certain armed groups and the Ivorian authorities, which he considers a risk to regional security. According to President Traoré, any instability in the neighbouring country could have direct repercussions on Burkina Faso, due to the strong Burkinabe presence on Ivorian soil and the close economic and security ties between the two countries.
The government is flirting with terrorists, let’s not kid ourselves. Do you really believe that the Ivorian army is less powerful than the terrorists imagine? Listen, nothing could be further from the truth. This is actually a non-aggression pact: these groups have become a kind of rear base. This situation worries me deeply. If the country were to experience a crisis, it could be attacked by these terrorists, because their power should not be underestimated. If nothing is done, the country risks sinking.
IBRAHIM TRAORE, President of the transition
For President Traoré, determination, clear objectives and the industrial strengthening of the armed forces are key to preserving the nation and ensuring victory over the terrorist threat, while maintaining Burkina Faso’s independence and sovereignty in a complex regional context.
