Burkina Faso’s President, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, has established a new honorary distinction within the national armed forces, known as the “Medal of Honour for the Volunteer for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP)”, the Burkina Information Agency (AIB) reported.
The decoration aims to recognise the outstanding contribution, commitment, bravery and sacrifice of thousands of civilians mobilised alongside the army in the fight to restore the country’s territorial integrity, national sovereignty and peace.
According to the presidential decree instituting the medal, three volunteers for the defense of the homeland will be the first to be decorated on November 1, 2025, during the 65th anniversary of the Burkinabe army.
This would be followed by a second group of three recipients at a later date.
At the centre of the medal appears the image of the late Ladji Yoro, described as a “fearless volunteer” and a symbol of courage and ultimate sacrifice in the fight against terrorism.
This heroic figure is meant to inspire all VDP members.
The Medal of Honour for the VDP is a single-grade distinction, awarded with or without the “bravery” clasp, depending on circumstances. It may be granted under normal, exceptional or posthumous conditions.
Recipients will receive a one-time 10% increase in their operational allowance. No chancery fees will be charged, and nominations will be reviewed by the Medal Council.
The version bearing the “bravery” clasp may be awarded to anyone who has demonstrated acts of courage or sacrifice during national or special operations. Without the clasp, it may also be granted to individuals or organisations contributing to strengthening the Volunteer Defense Brigade (BVDP).
In January 2024, Captain Traore had already improved the VDPs’ working and living conditions by raising the disability allowance from 1.8 to 3 million CFA francs, the monthly stipend from 60,000 to 80,000 CFA francs, the death benefit from 1 to 3 million CFA francs, and funeral expenses from 100,000 to 250,000 CFA francs.
HO/ac/lb/as/APA