Undoubtedly, few Amerikans have heard of Burkina Faso or the country’s president, Ibrahim Traoré. UWI and Halim Gençoğlu have a fantastic summary article about Traoré’s reforms and Burkina Faso’s concurrent pivot away from the West and its rise in Africa and the new multipolar order.

Traoré has initiated cultural changes to reinforce national identity. Banned colonial-era legal attire in courts, promoting traditional Burkinabé clothing. Expelled French troops and media, signalling a break from colonial legacies.

Traoré’s leadership draws parallels with that of Thomas Sankara, Burkina Faso’s former revolutionary leader known for his anti-imperialist policies and emphasis on self-reliance. By invoking Sankara’s legacy, Traoré appeals to nationalistic sentiments and the desire for a self-determined African future.

This may well be an example to follow, not just in Africa, but even in the West, for any peoples who want to reclaim their stolen heritages and survive the present turmoil. Traoré was featured among the world leaders present in Moscow for Victory Day. After the celebrations, he met extensively with Vladimir Putin, which tells you exactly which way Burkina Faso leans and who they see as viable allies and partners. Hopefully, this is a grand success story to watch and, where possible, emulate.