Ouagadougou: The President of Burkina Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traore, has inaugurated a new honorary distinction within the National Armed Forces, known as the ‘Medal of Honor for Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP).’ This initiative is aimed at acknowledging the significant contribution, commitment, and bravery of the civilians who collaborate with the army to restore the country’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, and to promote peace across the nation.
According to Burkina Information Agency, three Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP) are set to be the initial recipients of the VDP Medal of Honor on November 1, 2025, during the 65th anniversary celebration of the Burkinabe army. This will be followed by three more awards, as reported by the Presidency of Burkina Faso.
The decree establishing the medal reveals that the center features an effigy of the late Ladji Yoro, a celebrated volunteer symbolizing courage and supreme sacrifice in the fight against terrorism. The VDP Medal of Honor is a single-grade distinction, available with or without the ‘Bravery’ clasp, and can be awarded on a regular, exceptional, or posthumous basis.
Recipients of the medal are entitled to a one-time 10% increase in their operational bonus. The award process does not involve any chancery fees, and nominations are evaluated by the Medal Council. In exceptional cases, the medal with the ‘Bravery’ clasp is awarded to individuals who demonstrate acts of courage, devotion, or sacrifice during national or special operations. It can also be bestowed without a clasp to those who significantly enhance the capacities of the Brigade of Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (BVDP) or provide outstanding services to the Brigade and its structures.
Captain Ibrahim Traore has consistently prioritized the restoration of Burkina Faso’s territorial integrity and frequently acknowledges the dedication and patriotism of the VDP, who make daily sacrifices for the nation. In January 2024, he further improved their conditions by increasing the disability bonus, monthly salary, death benefit, and burial costs significantly.