Ouagadougou: The Ministry in charge of Trade and Handicrafts, spearheaded by Serge Gnaniodem Poda, announced a significant contribution of 5 million CFA francs to the 'My Brick for Sankara' campaign during the 10th ceremony paying tribute to Thomas Sankara and his twelve companions. The ceremony, held in Ouagadougou, also encouraged all Burkinabe to support the initiative.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the minister, presiding over the 10th tribute ceremony, stated that under the leadership of Captain Ibrahim Traor, President of Faso and Head of State, Burkina Faso is committed to honoring the memory of the heroes of the Revolution. The ceremony was a platform to reaffirm the nation's dedication to the values of patriotism, integrity, social justice, and sovereignty, which were championed by Thomas Sankara and his companions.
The minister highlighted the enduring economic legacy of the National Revolutionary Council (CNR), citing initiatives such as the first Investment Code focused on endogenous development, local raw material processing, the Ouagadougou International Arts and Crafts Fair (SIAO), and the promotion of national product consumption. These initiatives, according to the minister, are crucial for economic sovereignty.
He further linked the progressive popular revolution led by Captain Ibrahim Traor to the vision of Thomas Sankara, emphasizing projects aimed at refounding the State and reclaiming national sovereignty. The "My Brick for Sankara" campaign was underscored as essential for the continued construction of the Thomas Sankara Memorial, with the Ministry of Commerce's financial contribution marking a step towards realizing this vision.
Minister of Communication, Culture, Arts and Tourism, Pingdwend Gilbert Oudraogo, outlined the major components of the Thomas Sankara Memorial development project. He noted that the mausoleum, scheduled for inauguration in May 2025, represents a fraction of the overall project, which aims to transform the site into a premier tourist destination.
Since its opening to visitors in May 2025, the site has attracted over 180,000 visitors, generating more than 115 million CFA francs in revenue. Future plans include the construction of an 87-meter Thomas Sankara tower, a monumental 37-meter statue, and various other facilities such as a library, amphitheater, multipurpose hall, shopping center, and botanical gardens. The entire project, estimated at 117 billion CFA francs, seeks both public and private investment to become Africa's most visited tourist site.
Authorities concluded the ceremony by renewing their call to citizens and international friends to support the "My Brick for Sankara" campaign, emphasizing the importance of mobilizing national resources for the memorial's completion.