Burkina Faso: Chadian President celebrates the legacy of Thomas Sankara and calls for closer cooperation between the two countries
On the sidelines of his participation in FESPACO 2025, where Chad is the guest of honor, Chadian President Marshal Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno left a message of admiration in the guestbook of the Thomas Sankara Memorial in Ouagadougou. In his speech, he praised the Burkinabe people and paid a heartfelt tribute to the former revolutionary leader, Thomas Sankara, whom he described as a “true Africanist.”
The Chadian head of state emphasized the pivotal role played by Sankara in transforming Burkina Faso. According to him, Sankara was the architect of a multidimensional revolution—economic, social, and cultural—that allowed the country to assert itself as a strong and influential nation within Africa. He also reminded that Sankara’s legacy remains vibrant, making him an iconic figure of emancipation and freedom for all of Africa.
Marshal Déby Itno stressed the relevance of the pan-African ideals promoted by Sankara, stating that these principles will continue to inspire and guide African nations in their pursuit of development and autonomy. He also referred to the historical and fraternal ties between Burkina Faso and Chad, highlighting their shared destiny and the need to strengthen their collaboration.
The Chadian President called for active and mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries, in line with the values advocated by Thomas Sankara. For him, this cooperation should be built around shared aspirations for progress, solidarity, and regional integration.
His message reflects deep appreciation for Sankara’s work, while reaffirming Chad’s commitment to work alongside Burkina Faso for a common future, guided by the principles of Pan-Africanism and fraternity. This tribute takes place in a context where Sankara’s legacy continues to inspire current and future generations, both in Burkina Faso and throughout the continent.
