Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso is a landlocked country in West Africa, bordered by Mali to the northwest, Niger to the northeast, Benin to the southeast, Togo and Ghana to the south, and Ivory Coast to the southwest. The capital city is Ouagadougou, which serves as the political, economic, and cultural hub of the country.

Ouagadougou, often affectionately called “Ouaga” has a landscape that varies from semi-arid savannas to lush forests. The official language is French, with several indigenous languages such as Mossi, Bissa, Dyula, and Fula widely spoken.  Burkina Faso is known for its cultural diversity, with over 60 different ethnic groups, each having its own unique customs, languages, and practices. 

Burkina Faso’s history is deeply rooted in its early kingdoms, particularly the Mossi Empire, which dominated the region for centuries before the French colonized the area in the late 19th century. The country was known as Upper Volta under French rule, but it achieved independence in 1960. It wasn’t until 1984 that the country was renamed Burkina Faso, which translates to “land of the proud and honest people” or “land of incorruptible people” in Mooré and Dioula, under the revolutionary leadership of Thomas Sankara, a charismatic figure often referred to as “Africa’s Che Guevara.”

The country is known for its Sankofa Festival, which celebrates African heritage and traditions. The Grand Mosque of Bobo-Dioulasso is a notable historical and architectural landmark

One of the most celebrated cultural events is FESPACO (Festival Panafricain du Cinéma et de la Télévision de Ouagadougou), the largest African film festival, held biennially in the capital.