“My mother is Kazakh, my father is African”: unusual soldier serves in military unit in Shymkent

Tengrinews.kz – A young man originally from Burkina Faso is undergoing military service in Shymkent, citing Almaty.tv.

Karl Ouedraogo serves in the National Guard, protecting public order. He was born in West Africa, but his life has long been connected with Kazakhstan — he lives in Almaty with his parents.

Despite his place of birth, the young man says he is Kazakhstani at heart and considers defending the Motherland a great honor.

“I joined compulsory military service voluntarily because I decided to repay my debt to the Motherland. After assignment, we were sent to this military unit in Shymkent. Then there was a young soldier training course, followed by assignment to a battalion. Overall, our daily routine is fairly calm. We are responsible for the equipment entrusted to us and maintain it. We carry out the tasks assigned to us,” serviceman Karl Ouedraogo said.

“My mother is Kazakh and my father is African. In general, I see my future only in this country. I fully consider myself a citizen of the Republic of Kazakhstan. I like this country and I love it,” the soldier shared.

The military unit notes the young man’s discipline and responsibility. Karl is respected by both his fellow servicemen and command for the honest and conscientious performance of his duties.

“Today, Private Ouedraogo is serving in his specialty as a driver. He demonstrates a high level of vehicle handling skills. Despite being born in another country, he knows Kazakhstan’s traffic rules very well,” said Idris Chaushev, deputy commander of military unit 6506.

Today, about 500 servicemen serve in military unit 6506, ensuring the country’s security. For them, weapons are, above all, a responsibility, and service is a sacred duty.