Soldiers die while saving civilians in Burkina Faso

The terrorist attack last month in northern Burkina Faso highlights a central reality of conflict in Africa's Sahel region today.

Government forces are not only fighting extremist groups, but are also working to protect civilians under constant threat.

At least a dozen soldiers were killed when al-Qaeda-linked group Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) attacked the Titao town on February 28.

The assault happened while troops were building defensive fortifications intended to shield local residents from further violence and repeated attacks.

This is significant because it shows the troops were engaged in defensive work aimed at protecting residents rather than conducting an offensive operation.

The attack came amid a broader wave of violence that has continued across northern Burkina Faso in recent weeks.

Protecting civilians

International organizations have documented repeated attacks by JNIM across the region that have harmed civilians the most.

These attacks have included executions of local residents, burning of homes and markets and the destruction of infrastructure such as telecommunications towers.

In one earlier attack on Titao in mid-February, at least 34 civilians were executed and property was destroyed, underscoring the ongoing danger faced by residents.

In that context, the soldiers killed on February 28 were not simply guarding a military base, but were trying to protect civilians from further harm.

Defensive trenches are commonly used in threatened areas to slow attacks, protect properties and provide civilians with more time to reach safety.

The fact that the troops were attacked while performing that task demonstrates the direct risks faced by security forces trying to shield vulnerable communities.

Unrelenting attacks

Human Rights Watch has described JNIM's actions as "unrelenting" attacks against civilians, including executions and the destruction of civilian property.

These attacks are designed to terrorize communities and weaken government authority, especially in towns where residents are seen as cooperating with the state.

The February 28 incident shows government troops engaged in a legitimate and clearly defensive effort to protect a vulnerable population.

Their deaths therefore highlight not only the threat posed by extremist groups, but also the continued effort by state forces to defend their communities.

The attack also serves as a reminder that the events in Titao convey a different message, as soldiers continued building defenses despite repeated attacks.