In a poignant ceremony highlighting the enduring ties between Ghana and Burkina Faso, a street in Ouagadougou has been named in honour of Ghana’s former President, Flt. Lt. Jerry John Rawlings. Following the event, his son, Kimathi Rawlings, spoke about his father’s legacy, the impact of Thomas Sankara, and the pressing need for unity across Africa.
“I believe this recognition should have taken place at this scale much earlier,” Kimathi remarked in an interview with GTV. “The Thomas Sankara Foundation has worked tirelessly to keep [Sankara’s] legacy alive, and we have always been proud to support their efforts.”
Both Jerry John Rawlings and Thomas Sankara were revolutionary figures who shared a close personal friendship and political alliance. Their shared vision for pan-Africanism and grassroots empowerment continues to resonate throughout the continent, particularly in light of the rise of Ibrahim Traoré, the Burkinabé military officer currently serving as interim President since 2022.
Kimathi noted, “President Flt. Lt. Jerry John Rawlings, my father, was a staunch supporter of the foundation and a very close companion of Thomas Sankara.”
The event attracted representatives and supporters from across Africa, a display of solidarity that Kimathi described as deeply significant.
“It means a great deal to be here, and it is heartening that so many from across Africa have come together to mark this important occasion,” he stated. “United we will rise, and divided we will fall. That is how I perceive it.”
He seized the opportunity to call for greater unity across the continent, emphasising that the current circumstances present a unique and critical moment for Africa to come together.
“I believe now more than ever, we have the chance to unite as a continent. Many have attempted this before, but I think the conditions are ripe for such unity,” Kimathi asserted. “We see the challenges unfolding in the West, and for once, we are in a position to turn inward and explore how we can advance as a continent.”
He stressed the importance of collaboration, urging African nations to avoid working in isolation. “We cannot afford to be fragmented, with each nation operating in its own space. Together, we can become a formidable force for good in the world.”
Kimathi expressed confidence that Africa’s leaders are on the brink of achieving the long-desired unity. “Let’s streamline our efforts and work towards a brighter future. I believe our leaders are on the verge of making this a reality. We are in a promising position.”
“Certainly,” he concluded, “only by standing united can we accomplish our goals.”
Sankara Circle: A Shared Legacy
The street naming in Burkina Faso in honour of Thomas Sankara parallels a similar tribute paid by Jerry John Rawlings in Ghana.
Sankara Circle, once a notable landmark in Accra, has seen various changes over the years. Initially known as Akuafo Roundabout, it was renamed Redemption Circle during the National Redemption Council period. Under the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) led by Jerry John Rawlings, it became Sankara Circle, paying homage to Burkina Faso’s revolutionary leader, Thomas Sankara.
In 1997, construction commenced on Ghana’s first interchange at this site, culminating in the completion of the Sankara Interchange in 1999. However, in 2005, the interchange was renamed Ako Adjei Interchange by the Kufuor administration to honour Dr. Ebenezer Ako Adjei, a founding member of the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC) and one of Ghana’s “Big Six” leaders. Despite the official renaming, many locals continue to refer to the area as Sankara Circle.
