The 5th Conference of Police Commissioners opened on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, in Ouagadougou, bringing together senior police officials to discuss evolving security challenges and innovative strategies to safeguard the nation.
Hosted under the patronage of Security Minister Divisional Police Commissioner Mahamadou Sana, the conference was held under the theme: “The National Police in the light of the changes in the security landscape of Burkina Faso.”
The three-day meeting provides a platform for reflection, experience sharing, and cooperation between the police, other defense and security forces, and community stakeholders. It aims to strengthen professional standards and build a republican, community-focused police force capable of responding to modern threats.
In his opening address, Inspector General Thierry Tuina, Director General of the National Police, paid tribute to the Defense and Security Forces (FDS), the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP), and civilians who lost their lives in the fight against terrorism.
“First of all, allow me to pay a well-deserved tribute to the FDS, the VDP, and to the memory of the civilian heroes who fell on the field of honor,” he said, praising their courage and dedication.
Recalling the progress made since the previous 2023 conference, Tuina highlighted improvements in equipment, training, and operational readiness.
“This progress has enabled us to better respond to threats and further secure our territory. The top priority remains the fight against terrorism and the reconquest of national territory,” he affirmed.
Tuina emphasized the need for strategic and operational innovation, citing mobile police stations and the expanded use of motorcycles to improve responsiveness. He also acknowledged the continued support of the government and President of Faso in modernizing the police force.
Security Minister Mahamadou Sana underlined the statutory importance of the conference, describing it as “a source of proposals, a laboratory of ideas, and a framework for reflection for a republican police force that is close to the citizen, professional, honest, and efficient.”
He called on participants to formulate “concrete, realistic, and achievable” recommendations to strengthen citizen security.
Over three days, commissioners will engage in thematic panels addressing modernization of policing methods, rapid intervention strategies, technological adoption, and enhanced cooperation with communities and the justice system.
The conference aims to produce actionable recommendations to guide police operations and ensure improved local security across Burkina Faso.
Minister Sana concluded the opening ceremony by urging collective mobilization: “Burkina Faso is counting on each of you. Be the guardians of our sovereignty and the sentinels of our national dignity.”
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