The Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP), civilian auxiliaries aiding the military in the fight against jihadists, are set to receive increased allowances and indemnities. This commitment was made by Captain Ibrahim Traoré, who has been leading the country since September 2022.
President of the transitional government in Burkina Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, is bolstering the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP), civilian collaborators engaged in counterterrorism efforts. Their allowances and indemnities have been raised, a pledge made during President Traoré’s New Year address to the nation.
The primary announced measure is the monthly allowance for VDP, which has been elevated from 60,000 CFA francs to 80,000 CFA francs, equivalent to 122 euros starting this January. Additionally, President Traoré declared that each VDP would be entitled to “individual insurance covering bodily injuries – resulting in total permanent disability or cause of death – in the context of counterterrorism activities.” The insurance amount could reach up to 3 million CFA francs, exceeding 4,500 euros.
Conversely, the monthly allowance previously allocated for their fuel and operational expenses has been discontinued. Moving forward, VDP members will rely on support from communities or voluntary contributions.
With these measures, President Traoré significantly fortifies the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland, established four years ago to combat jihadist insurgency. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing the welfare and support provided to those on the front lines of the fight against terrorism in Burkina Faso.