Thomas Sankara Biography

Great African leaders

Thomas Sankara was a Burkinabé revolutionary and military officer who served as the President of Burkina Faso from 1983 until his assassination in 1987.

Sankara’s government implemented policies focused on fighting corruption, promoting public health and education, and empowering women. He was also a strong advocate for pan-Africanism and African unity. His government was known for its rejection of Western aid and for policies of self-reliance and self-sufficiency, including efforts to promote local industry and agriculture.

The Burkinabé leader was admired by many for his leadership style, personal integrity, and commitment to social justice and equality. His assassination on October 15, 1987, believed to have been carried out by members of his own government, cut short his ambitious plans for Burkina Faso and his vision for a more equitable and united Africa. Despite his short time in power, Sankara’s legacy continues to inspire many across Africa and around the world.