Remembered as “Africa’s Che Guevara,” Sankara was a charismatic, anti-imperialist, and Pan-Africanist president who renamed the country from Upper Volta to Burkina Faso (“Land of Upright Men”). His government initiated ambitious programs focused on self-sufficiency, public health, education, and women’s rights, fundamentally challenging the status quo of African politics.

His life and work continue to inspire activists and leaders across the continent and the world.