A ceremony for the 139th promotion of commandos concluded on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at the camp of the 211th Commando Battalion in Gitega, Burundi. The event marked the graduation of the latest cohort of commandos, following a full training program. The closing ceremony, held at the battalion's camp, celebrated the successful completion of their rigorous course. This significant occasion brought together military leadership and government officials to acknowledge the newly qualified commandos.
Ceremony Notes and Speeches
Général major Elie Ndizigiye, deputy commander of the Ground Force within the FDNB, delivered a powerful appeal during the ceremony, urging the graduates to apply their training diligently in their future roles. Général Ndizigiye specifically stated, "mettre, quotidiennement, en pratique les connaissances acquises dans l’exercice de leurs fonctions," emphasizing the practical application of their extensive learning. His address noted the critical importance of their skills for national service. Général de brigade Désiré Manirakiza, commander of the 2nd Military Division, also extended heartfelt congratulations to the newly promoted commandos, commending their dedication and perseverance throughout the demanding training period.
The ceremony featured the official awarding of green berets and certificates to the graduating commandos, a symbolic moment signifying their entry into the elite commando ranks. This presentation showed the formal recognition of their achievements and readiness for duty. Following these formal presentations, the new commandos showcased their acquired techniques and aptitudes through various impressive demonstrations. These displays noted the advanced skills and physical prowess developed during their intensive training, marking their readiness for service and demonstrating the effectiveness of the program. The precision and coordination evident in their demonstrations were a testament to the high standards of their instruction.
Call to Duty and Professionalism
The newly promoted commandos were strongly encouraged to exemplify professionalism, discipline, and patriotism in their service to the nation. Lieutenant-colonel Mélance Nimbona, the commander of the 211th Commando Battalion, showed the immense importance of these values during the ceremony, stressing that they form the bedrock of military service. Nimbona also urged the graduates to prioritize the protection of the population and their property, maintaining unwavering respect for human rights in all their operations. This message reinforced the ethical framework expected of all military personnel. The commandos underwent a full training program that spanned three months, meticulously designed to instill both tactical skills and moral principles. Amédée Habimana, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Defense and Veteran Affairs, reiterated the government's unwavering commitment to supporting the military through ongoing training initiatives. Habimana emphasized the government's continuous efforts to enhance the professional capabilities of the national defense force, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet contemporary challenges.
Context and Future Expectations
The training session for the 139th commando promotion commenced on April 19, 2026, marking the beginning of their transformative journey. Lieutenant-colonel Mélance Nimbona, deputy commander of the camp of the 211th Commando Battalion, expressed profound gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of the training program, acknowledging the instructors and support staff. Nimbona also commended the exceptional diligence and unwavering determination demonstrated by the trainees throughout their challenging course, noting their commitment to excellence. The successful graduation of this cohort reinforces the ongoing commitment to strengthening Burundi's national defense capabilities.
