Ouagadougou: The President of the Transitional Legislative Assembly, Dr. Ousmane Bougouma, has officially launched the Thomas Sankara Special Prize for Creativity in a ceremony held at the headquarters of the Ouagadougou International Crafts Fair (SIAO). The prize, with a budget of 3 million FCFA, aims to recognize and reward an African artistic work of exceptional quality.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Dr. Bougouma emphasized the significance of the prize in honoring the legacy of President Thomas Sankara, who was instrumental in initiating the Ouagadougou International Crafts Fair. The Thomas Sankara Special Prize for Creativity is an initiative by the Transitional Legislative Assembly, adding to the existing array of special prizes awarded by parliament. These awards have a combined value of 3 million 250 thousand FCFA, aimed at recognizing outstanding contributions from various regions.
Dr. Bougouma highlighted that the prize serves as a reminder of the visionary leadership of President Sanka
ra, under whom the first craft products exhibition, “Artisanat 84”, was launched in November 1984. This event’s success paved the way for the inaugural edition of the SIAO in February 1988, laying a foundation for the continued celebration of African craftsmanship and creativity.
An independent and professional jury will be tasked with identifying the best work in the creativity pavilion to receive the Thomas Sankara Special Prize for Creativity. Dr. Bougouma concluded by emphasizing that the prize is a call to foster greater creativity and ingenuity across Africa, promoting a competitive and innovative artistic landscape on the continent.