National Fire Brigade: Lt. Col. Sid Norma Francis Abdul Rasheed Ouedraogo appointed as Commander of the First Fire and Rescue Brigade

The Fire and Rescue Group was established by decree of February 6, 2024, with the mission of ensuring the protection of people and property throughout the intervention sector from all risks, in particular fire and all other related risks. The first group brings together the fire and rescue companies located in the South Central, Central Plateau and Central regions.

The takeover operation organized today gives the legitimacy to Lieutenant Colonel Sidnorma Francis Abdulrasheed Ouedraogo to command the companies under his jurisdiction. In his speech, he firmly pledged to ensure that the firefighters will lead in the protection of property and people in the areas of responsibility of the first group with the highest level of dedication. “Our vision is to reduce intervention times, above all taking into account new threats. In our troubled environment, characterized by the insidious threat of terrorism and the expansion and accelerated modernization of our cities, our mission is more complex and more important than ever,” he insisted.

The new commander noted that the creation of the Fire and Rescue Group was a clear desire of the Command, aimed at carrying out operations of this level, able to provide direct assistance to the population, while respecting deadlines and a high level of professionalism. For him, the importance of the group no longer needs to be justified, especially when we take into account the fact that major disasters can occur in the intervention sector and there are important institutional and economic interests to defend.

Lieutenant Colonel Francis Ouedraogo said that in order to carry out his new mission, he counted on the support and company of his colleagues and family. It is worth noting that he joined the national armed forces in October 2003. His career began in December 2005 as an instructor at the George Namoano Military Academy. He has served as the commander of the third company of MINUSMA, the head of the intelligence room of the Eastern Region Command of MINUSMA, the head of the Operational Coordination Section of the Army General Staff, and the head of the Planning and Training Group of MINUSMA. Integrated Operations Center. He holds several degrees, including a Master’s degree in Military Arts and Sciences, a first-level Master’s degree in Economic Intelligence and International Development, and a second-level Master’s degree in Strategic and Military International Studies.

Amel Ouedraogo

Lefaso.com