Burkina Faso – Chad: President Déby pays tribute to Thomas Sankara

During his visit to Ouagadougou for the official opening of FESPACO 2025, where Chad was the guest of honor, President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno took a moment to honor the legacy of Thomas Sankara, the iconic leader of Burkina Faso’s revolution. Standing at Sankara’s memorial, the Chadian president expressed deep admiration for his vision and leadership.

For President Déby, Thomas Sankara was a trailblazer who championed economic, social, and cultural transformation.

« He was the architect of a revolution that placed sovereignty at the heart of national development, » he stated. « Even today, Sankara remains an enduring symbol of emancipation and freedom across Africa. His philosophy of pan-Africanism will continue to inspire the continent’s path forward. »

Chad, like Burkina Faso and other members of the AES Confederation, has embraced the pursuit of self-determination and sustainable development under President Déby’s leadership.

Strengthening ties between the two nations is seen as a crucial step in addressing shared challenges, with Sankara’s ideals serving as a guiding force.

Thomas Sankara’s vision for development, first introduced in Burkina Faso in the 1980s, continues to influence many African leaders who seek true independence and the fulfilment of their people’s aspirations.

President Déby emphasized the importance of a strong and mutually beneficial partnership between Burkina Faso and Chad—one that aligns with the revolutionary ideals championed by Sankara.

Fanta KOUROUMA