About Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso, formerly Upper Volta, is a landlocked country in West Africa, bordered by Mali, Niger, Benin, Togo, Ghana, and Ivory Coast.
The country has about 20 million inhabitants and covers an area of 274,200 km². Its capital is Ouagadougou, the economic and cultural center of the country.
Burkina Faso is known for its legendary hospitality, traditional music, and colorful festivals such as FESPACO, the largest African film festival.
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Tribute to Thomas Sankara
Thomas Sankara (1949–1987), "The African Che Guevara"
Thomas Sankara, often called "the African Che Guevara," was a charismatic leader who marked Burkina Faso's history during his brief rule from 1983 to 1987.
He renamed the country from Upper Volta to Burkina Faso, meaning "land of upright people." His government implemented radical reforms for self-sufficiency, women's rights, and social justice.
Sankara sold government luxury cars, reduced his own salary, promoted local agriculture, and launched massive vaccination and literacy campaigns.
His assassination in 1987 shocked the continent, but his legacy continues to inspire generations of pan-African activists and social justice advocates.
"The slave who is not able to assume his revolt does not deserve pity."
Thomas Sankara
Explore Our Nation
Culture
Discover the rich culture of Burkina Faso through its music, traditional dances, and crafts.
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Cuisine
Taste the delights of Burkinabe cuisine, with signature dishes like rice with sauce and bicycle chicken.
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Tourism
Explore the natural and historical wonders of Burkina Faso, from the Banfora waterfalls to the ruins of Loropéni.
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Convert West African CFA franc (XOF) to USD or EUR to prepare your trip.
Did You Know?
Linguistic Diversity
More than 60 languages are spoken across the country, with Mooré, Dioula, and Fulfuldé as the main languages.
Capital of African Cinema
Ouagadougou hosts FESPACO, the largest African film festival, held every two years since 1969.
Land of Upright People
"Burkina Faso" means "Land of Upright People" in Mooré (burkina) and Dioula (faso), reflecting the values of the people.