Burkina Faso: Armed forces to conduct military exercise on west side of Ouagadougou Aug. 19

Event

The armed forces of Burkina Faso have announced a planned military exercise in Ouagadougou between 08:00-14:00 Aug. 19. The nation's General Staff of the Army has advised the public that the exercise will take place in the vicinity of the Higher Institute of Civil Protection Studies. According to military officials, residents of the city - particularly those of the Gounghin neighborhood - may hear the sounds of explosions and gunfire during the training; authorities have urged the public not to be concerned and to go about their daily business normally.

Regardless of the General Staff's public announcement, the exercise could prompt some localized business and transport disruptions in the west end of Ouagadougou, particularly in quarters where word of the event fails to circulate generally among residents. Previous similar training sessions by the Burkinabe military have largely transpired without significant incident.

Advice

Avoid the area of the planned military exercise and remain calm if operating in close proximity to the event. Heed the instructions of local authorities.