Ouagadougou – A significant event took place in Koudougou as the history department of Norbert Zongo University, in collaboration with the Norbert Zongo National Press Center, organized an international multidisciplinary conference from December 13 to 15. This conference was dedicated to commemorating the 25th anniversary of the death of Norbert Zongo, a renowned journalist.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Siriki Dramé, a member of the steering committee of the Norbert Zongo National Press Center, stated that the conference aimed to perpetuate the fight for the ideals Norbert Zongo advocated until his death. Zongo is remembered for his commitment to freedom of expression, opinion, and the press.
Dramé, speaking at the conference’s opening, emphasized the ongoing efforts to seek truth and justice for Zongo’s assassination and those of his companions. He mentioned that the Norbert Zongo National Press Center is dedicated to ensuring the conference’s proceedings are codified and published.
Dr. Edwige Zagré, President of the organizing committee of the conference, highlighted the responsibility felt by the university bearing Zongo’s name to honor him, two and a half decades after his passing. The conference covered four major themes: testimonies about Norbert Zongo, his literary and journalistic works, the challenges of contemporary Africa, and culture and religion.
A photo exhibition at the Norbert Zongo University library was also part of the event, showcasing the tragic events of December 13, 1998, and the subsequent efforts for justice. The conference concluded with a visit to Norbert Zongo’s family home, where Georgette Rouamba née Zongo, his sister, expressed gratitude for the sustained support and solidarity shown by the organizers and participants over the past 25 years.