Ouagadougou: The passing of Me Titinga Frédéric Pacéré on November 8, 2024, has evoked a wave of tributes and emotions across Burkina Faso and beyond. Known for his relentless advocacy for peace, cultural preservation, and justice, Pacéré’s legacy is one that continues to resonate with many. The President of Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, honored him as a “great defender of culture and endogenous knowledge,” while Me Batibié Benao, President of the Bar, expressed the nation’s sorrow, symbolically noting that “the sky darkened today.”
According to Burkina Information Agency, Pacéré’s death has sent ripples across the world, underscoring the profound impact he had during his lifetime. His dedication to defending the vulnerable and his commitment to cultural heritage preservation are testaments to his enduring influence. Born on November 8, 1973, Pacéré’s journey as a lawyer spanned over five decades, marked by numerous accolades and achievements that reflect his unwavering commitment to justice and cultural adv
ocacy.
Pacéré’s academic pursuits took him from Burkina Faso to the Ivory Coast and France, shaping him into a multifaceted individual with degrees in legal sciences, literature, and sociology from the University of Rennes. His passion for justice saw him become the first president of the Burkinabe Bar and the founder of the Association Avocat sans Frontières in 1982. His work on the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda exemplified his dedication to justice, as he sought to address the atrocities of genocide and heal communities.
A staunch advocate for African culture, Pacéré often proclaimed that “Africa must return to Africa,” emphasizing the continent’s cultural wealth over political governance. His efforts to safeguard Moaga culture and promote endogenous values earned him the recognition as a Living Human Treasure. Pacéré’s belief in the power of culture led him to champion its inclusion in African university curricula.
Beyond his legal career, Pacéré was a prolific poet, writer, and traditional
chief, contributing over fifty literary works and founding the Manéga museum. His cultural influence extended internationally, garnering him memberships in prestigious academies and awards, such as the Grand Prix littéraire d’Afrique noire and the French Legion of Honor.
Nationally, Pacéré was celebrated with the Grand Officer of the National Order and the Grand Cross of the Stallion, Burkina Faso’s highest honor. His life and achievements serve as an inspiring legacy that continues to command respect and admiration.