### Burkina Faso: the dilemma of military communication in times of crisis
The modern world has seen the dazzling boom in communication technologies, and in particular, the omnipresent use of smartphones. In contexts of tension and conflict, the update of communication protocols becomes an imperative necessity. In Burkina Faso, the recent decision to tidy up a non-commissioned officer for trying to coordinate the evacuation of wounded comrades via a voice message testifies to a blatant dilemma within the armed forces: between operational security and humanity in emergency.
Master Sergeant Mahamado Bouda was punished for using his phone during an armed attack on his detachment in Sebba. Although his intention to save lives is commendable, his act was perceived as a “particularly serious fault”, compromising the security of the unit by potentially transmitting sensitive information by an unsecured channel. This situation raises several crucial questions about military communication practices in a combat context.
### Defense regulations in the face of the reality of the battlefield
The decision to sanction Mahamado Bouda is part of strict military regulation which prohibits the use of mobile phones on the ground. These rules exist to prevent the disclosure of information to the enemy, but they can also create situations where the speed of communication becomes a determining factor for survival. In a time when terrorist attacks are increasingly frequent, the rigidity of the protocols could itself compromise the capacity of a force to react effectively to emergency situations.
As a comparison, several armed forces around the world have started to adopt more flexible policies concerning the use of communication technologies, ranging from the integration of secure messaging applications to emergency communication protocols. This allows them to maintain a delicate balance between the safety of operations and the vital need for an exchange of information in real time.
#### The psychological dimension of morale of troops
In the particular context of Burkina Faso, this case also illustrates a crucial issue: the morale of the troops. According to Colonel Bapio Narcisse Bassinga, the recording and dissemination of a testimony during the conflict weaken the morale of the soldiers. If Bouda’s intention was to request immediate support for his injured comrades, this choice of communication led to a reaction that could increase the feeling of isolation and despair among the soldiers.
Researchers in military psychology claim that the morale of the troops is just as vital as their equipment. An increasing mistrust of the hierarchy, exacerbated by decisions perceived as unfair, can lead to subversive behavior and a drop in motivation within the ranks.
#### A wider socio-political issue
However, this case is not limited to military implications alone. It echoes larger issues of security governance in Burkina Faso, a country struggling with terrorist groups and an ambient insecurity climate. The difficulty of managing military operations while maintaining a bond of trust with the population and the forces present is a major challenge. In an environment where communication with civilians is just as crucial, transparency and empathy become determining assets.
Political and military actors must not only build a robust security framework, but also establish an open dialogue with local communities. Because ultimately, the ability of a country to face the terrorist threat does not depend solely on the military force, but on a constructive interaction between the army, the government and the people.
### Conclusion: towards an in -depth reflection
The Mahamado Bouda episode underlines the complexity inherent in the management of crises in a world where communication technologies evolve faster than security protocols. The armies must adapt to remain reactive and relevant to modern threats. To this end, a dialogue renewed around the rules of engagement could make it possible to save lives while preserving operational security.
Like many countries, Burkina Faso should envisage the integration of new practices that take into account both the reality on the ground and the security imperatives, while keeping in mind the importance of morale and the support of troops. It is in this quest for balance that the way lies towards an army that is both strong and human.