Burkina Faso: A national conference to support the families of fallen heroes
From March 11 to 13, 2025, the Agency for the Support of Widows, Orphans, and War Victims (ASVOVIG) is organizing a national conference in Ouagadougou, under the theme “Psychosocial Reconstruction and Empowerment of Widows and Orphans of Combat Forces”. The event, presided over by the Minister of State for National Defense and Veterans Affairs, Brigadier General Célestin Simporé, aims to improve the living conditions of the families of soldiers who died in the defense of the homeland.
The event, which brings together institutional actors, partners, and representatives of civil society, aims to strengthen support mechanisms for the widows and orphans of the defense and security forces. According to Minister Simporé, this conference is part of a broader approach to harmonize efforts in favor of the beneficiaries of the national heroes. He reminded that taking care of these families is a priority for the military and government authorities.
Colonel Doctor Lamine Ouédraogo, Director General of ASVOVIG, emphasized the importance of this conference in the context of an ongoing security crisis. “Behind each fallen soldier is a family facing psychological, economic, and social challenges. These families deserve our attention and collective action”. he stated. He also stressed the need for enhanced coordination among the various actors to offer sustainable solutions.
Founded in 2023, ASVOVIG is an interministerial body tasked with coordinating initiatives in favor of widows, orphans, and war victims. Its missions include psychosocial support, legal assistance, training, and professional reintegration. General Simporé expressed hope that this conference will result in concrete projects with a rapid impact, significantly improving the living conditions of the beneficiaries.
This conference follows a previous initiative in 2024, focused on the care of injured personnel in operations. It marks an important step in Burkina Faso’s efforts to honor and support the families of those who sacrificed their lives for the nation. Participants hope that the recommendations arising from these discussions will contribute to strengthening the resilience and autonomy of widows and orphans, while offering them a more peaceful future.
