Abidjan — One hundred and fifty soldiers in camouflage and tactical gear, rifles in hand, masks and berets on their heads. Leading the formation, a coordinator holding the red-yellow-green flag high while snipers followed in the rear. The unmistakable rhythm of the “Pas de caméléon” set the pace as this elite Guinean unit marched past.
The Guinean special forces drew thunderous applause from the crowd, punctuated by standing ovations and military salutes from the official tribune, during the 66th anniversary of Côte d’Ivoire’s independence parade in Abidjan.
This closing segment of the foreign contingents’ march left a lasting impression. On television and across social media, journalists, bloggers, and online viewers praised the Guinean detachment’s powerful display.
« I’m Ivorian, but for me, this was the best parade. I kept watching it in peace, even downloaded the video. Thank you, Guinea,» wrote Deloy Dadié, visibly impressed by the performance.
Brice Kouadio echoed the sentiment: « The best this year — imposing, powerful, fierce, and elegant!»
For Constant Silué, the Guinean special forces outshone even Côte d’Ivoire’s own military: « I loved the Guinean army’s parade more than our own. It’s the first time I’ve seen their special forces in action. It was magnificent. Thank you, Guinea. You are sincere and true neighbors.»
Across the border in Guinea, the parade footage sparked pride. Bory Diallo noted, « The subregion is taking notice of Guinea’s military prowess.»
Ibrahima Bah highlighted the symbolic significance of the participation: « Strong neighborly ties matter. With a large Guinean community in Côte d’Ivoire, seeing our forces march there was a source of pride — especially for those of us living in that beautiful country.»
Sekou Moriba shared similar feelings: « Despite everything, seeing them march fills us with pride.»
Elite recognition in the subregion
This wasn’t the first time the Guinean special forces stole the spotlight. Since their standout appearance during Guinea’s independence celebrations on October 2, 2018, this elite unit has steadily gained recognition as one of the country’s most impressive military formations.
Their performance in Abidjan has once again cemented their reputation.
