Théophane Marie Xavier Nikyema – 4 January 1953 – 29 July 2024

The International Bureau for Children’s Rights (IBCR) deeply regrets to announce the passing of Mr. Théophane Nikyema on Monday, 29 July 2024, in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.

Théophane dedicated his entire professional life to advancing children’s rights worldwide, ensuring that every child, in all their diversity, enjoys equal rights in every circumstance. He has been a valued member of our board of directors since September 2017 and has served as its chairman since May 2019.

Throughout the past seven years, Théophane has offered invaluable counsel and unwavering support to our organization. Beyond his remarkable expertise and leadership, we collectively remember his team spirit, kindness, humility, steadfast dedication to children’s rights, joie de vivre, support for all our teams, warm smile, dignity, benevolence, humanity, and immense wisdom.

Théophane remains in our hearts, having him by our side was a privilege. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide us, serving as a touchstone for the entire International Bureau for Children’s Rights (IBCR) organization.

The International Bureau for Children’s Rights (IBCR) extends its deepest condolences to his wife, children, family, loved ones, all our teams, and everyone fortunate enough to have known or worked with him.

A prayer vigil will be held on Monday, 5 August 2024, at 8:30 p.m. at the family home in Ouagadougou. A mass of thanksgiving will be celebrated on Tuesday, 6 August 2024, at 9:00 a.m. at the Church of Notre Dame de l’Immaculée Conception in Kologh-Naaba, followed by burial at the Gounghin Cemetery (Ouagadougou).

A book of condolences has been opened by the International Bureau for Children’s Rights. Those wishing to express their sentiments can send a note to j.verhaegen@ibcr.org until 25 August 2024.

If you would prefer to pay your respects in another way, the International Bureau for Children’s Rights is organizing a donation collection in his honor. Details on how to contribute can be found below.

The book of condolences and the total donations received will be presented to his family at the beginning of September 2024.

On behalf of the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee of the International Bureau for Children’s Rights, Alexia, Annick, Darrel, Ghizlane, Jean-Claude, Julie, Laura, Luis, Marie-Claude, Martin, Mélissa, Roberta et Ulla.

Donations will be accepted until August 31^st, 2024

For monitoring purposes, please inform us of any donations by emailing j.verhaegen@ibcr.org. Include the transfer date and the account holder’s name in your message.