bb.Capital of Burkina Faso : Ouagadougou

Population (Estimated July 2012): 17,275,115

Area: 270,764 km² or 104,543 mi²

Currency: CFA franc (CFAF)

Official Language: French

Political Information: Semi-Presidential Republic

Official Religion: No Official Religion (approximately 60.5% of the population are Muslim, 19% are Catholic, 15.3% are Animist, 4.2% are Protestant, and 1% have other or no religious beliefs)

Highest Mountain: Tena Kourou at 749m or 2,457ft

 

GDP Official Exchange Rate (OER is more precise at gauging a countries economic power)

(Estimated 2011): $10.1 billion (US$) or £6.06 billion (GBP)

GDP (OER) Per Capita (per member of the population estimated 2011): (US$) or (GBP)

GDP Purchasing Power Parity (PPP is good for gauging living conditions and use of resources but not as accurate as OER. This data has been calculated based on the sum value of all goods and services produced in the country valued at prices prevailing in the United States)  

(Estimated 2011): $21.83 billion (US$) or £13,098 billion(GBP)

GDP (PPP) Per Capita (per member of the population estimated 2011): $1,500 (US$) or £900 (GBP)

Time Zone (GMT/UTC): GMT

Counties/Provinces/States: 13 regions; Boucle du Mouhoun, Cascades, Centre, Centre-Est, Centre-Nord, Centre-Ouest, Centre-Sud, Est, Hauts-Bassins, Nord, Plateau-Central, Sahel, Sud-Ouest

Leaders: President Roch Marc Christian KABORE (since 29 December 2015) with Prime Minister Paul Kaba THIEBA (since 6 January 2016)

Additional: Gained independence from France on the 5^th of August 1960.

Sources: CIA World Fact Book, Encyclopaedia Britannica.

Burkina Faso, officially known as the Republic of Burkina Faso, is a landlocked country located in West Africa. It is bordered by six countries: Mali to the north, Niger to the east, Benin to the southeast, Togo and Ghana to the south, and Ivory Coast to the southwest. With an area of approximately 274,200 square kilometres, Burkina Faso is one of the largest countries in West Africa.

The population of Burkina Faso is estimated to be around 20 million people. The country is home to more than 60 different ethnic groups, each with its own language and cultural traditions. The official language is French, which was inherited from its colonial past. However, many Burkinabé also speak their native languages such as Mossi, Fulfulde, and Dioula.

History of Burkina Faso: From Pre-Colonial Times to Independence

Burkina Faso has a rich history that dates back to pre-colonial times. The region was once home to several powerful kingdoms and empires, including the Mossi Kingdoms and the Gurma Kingdoms. These kingdoms were known for their advanced agricultural practices and trade networks.

In the late 19th century, Burkina Faso came under French colonial rule. The French established control over the region through military conquest and imposed their own administrative systems and economic policies. However, the Burkinabé people resisted French colonization through various means, including armed uprisings and political movements.

Burkina Faso gained independence from France on August 5, 1960. The country was initially led by President Maurice Yaméogo, who ruled for over a decade before being overthrown in a military coup in 1966. Since then, Burkina Faso has experienced several periods of political instability, including multiple coups and changes in leadership. However, in recent years, the country has made significant progress towards democratic governance.

Geography and Climate of Burkina Faso: A Country of Diverse Landscapes

Burkina Faso is a landlocked country with a diverse range of landscapes. The country is characterized by vast savannahs, rolling hills, and the Sahel region in the north. The Sahel is a semi-arid region that stretches across several countries in West Africa and is known for its dry climate and sparse vegetation.

Burkina Faso can be divided into several distinct regions, each with its own unique geography. The northern part of the country is dominated by the Sahel region, while the central and southern regions are characterized by savannahs and agricultural land. The southwest region is home to the Comoé National Park, which is known for its diverse wildlife and natural beauty.

The climate in Burkina Faso is generally hot and dry, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The country experiences a rainy season from May to October, during which most of the annual rainfall occurs. The dry season, from November to April, is characterized by high temperatures and little to no rainfall.

Culture and Traditions of Burkina Faso: Rich and Vibrant Heritage

Burkina Faso has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its music, dance, art, and traditional practices. The country is known for its vibrant music scene, with traditional instruments such as the balafon (a type of xylophone) and the kora (a string instrument) being widely used. Traditional dance forms such as the bwa and the gourounsi are also an important part of Burkinabé culture.

Artistic expression is highly valued in Burkina Faso, with many talented artists creating beautiful sculptures, paintings, and textiles. The country is also known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations, which showcase the diversity and richness of Burkinabé culture. The FESPACO (Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou) is one of the largest film festivals in Africa and attracts filmmakers from all over the continent.

Economy of Burkina Faso: Agriculture, Mining and Tourism

The economy of Burkina Faso is primarily based on agriculture, which employs the majority of the population. The country is known for its production of cotton, which is one of its main cash crops. Other important agricultural products include sorghum, millet, maize, and peanuts.

In recent years, Burkina Faso has also seen growth in its mining sector. The country is rich in mineral resources, including gold, manganese, zinc, and limestone. Gold mining in particular has become a major industry, attracting foreign investment and contributing to the country’s economic growth.

Tourism is another potential source of income for Burkina Faso. The country has a wealth of cultural and historical attractions, including ancient ruins, traditional villages, and vibrant markets. In addition, Burkina Faso is home to several national parks and nature reserves, which offer opportunities for ecotourism and wildlife viewing.

Politics and Governance in Burkina Faso: A Democratic Republic

Burkina Faso is a democratic republic with a multi-party political system. The country’s government is headed by a president who is elected by popular vote for a five-year term. The president serves as both the head of state and the head of government.

In recent years, Burkina Faso has made significant progress towards democratic governance. However, the country has also faced challenges such as political instability, corruption, and human rights abuses. In 2014, mass protests erupted against then-President Blaise Compaoré, who had been in power for 27 years. The protests eventually led to his resignation and the establishment of a transitional government.

Since then, Burkina Faso has held several successful elections and witnessed peaceful transfers of power. However, the country continues to face challenges in terms of ensuring political stability, promoting good governance, and protecting human rights and civil liberties.

Education and Health in Burkina Faso: Challenges and Progress

Burkina Faso faces significant challenges in the areas of education and health. The country has one of the lowest literacy rates in the world, with only about 36% of adults being able to read and write. Access to education is also limited, particularly in rural areas where schools are often poorly equipped and understaffed.

In terms of healthcare, Burkina Faso has made progress in recent years but still faces significant challenges. The country has a high infant mortality rate and a low life expectancy. Access to healthcare is limited, particularly in rural areas where there is a shortage of medical facilities and trained healthcare professionals.

The government of Burkina Faso has implemented various initiatives to improve education and healthcare in the country. These include increasing funding for education and healthcare, improving infrastructure, and training more teachers and healthcare workers. However, more needs to be done to ensure that all Burkinabé have access to quality education and healthcare services.

Religion in Burkina Faso: A Diverse Mix of Beliefs and Practices

Burkina Faso is known for its religious diversity, with Islam and Christianity being the two main religions practised in the country. Islam is the largest religion, with about 60% of the population being Muslim. Christianity is practised by about 25% of the population, with Roman Catholicism being the largest Christian denomination.

In addition to Islam and Christianity, Burkina Faso is also home to various traditional beliefs and practices. Many Burkinabé people incorporate elements of traditional African religions into their daily lives, including the worship of ancestral spirits and the belief in supernatural forces.

Religious tolerance is generally high in Burkina Faso, with Muslims and Christians living side by side and participating in each other’s religious celebrations. Interfaith dialogue and cooperation are encouraged, and religious leaders play an important role in promoting peace and unity in the country.

Wildlife and Conservation in Burkina Faso: Protecting the Country’s Natural Resources

Burkina Faso is home to a diverse range of wildlife and natural resources. The country has several national parks and nature reserves that are dedicated to the conservation of its unique ecosystems and wildlife. These protected areas are home to a variety of species, including elephants, lions, hippos, and crocodiles.

However, Burkina Faso faces significant challenges when it comes to wildlife conservation. Illegal hunting, deforestation, and habitat destruction are major threats to the country’s biodiversity. In addition, climate change and desertification pose further challenges to the sustainability of Burkina Faso’s natural resources.

Efforts are being made to address these challenges and protect Burkina Faso’s natural resources. The government has implemented various conservation programs and initiatives, including the establishment of new protected areas and the enforcement of anti-poaching laws. In addition, local communities are being involved in conservation efforts through community-based natural resource management projects.

Tourism in Burkina Faso: Discovering the Hidden Gems of West Africa

Burkina Faso has a wealth of cultural, historical, and natural attractions that make it an ideal destination for tourists. The country offers a unique blend of traditional African culture, vibrant festivals, ancient ruins, and stunning landscapes.

One of the highlights of visiting Burkina Faso is experiencing its vibrant festivals and celebrations. The country is known for its lively music and dance festivals, such as the Nuits Atypiques de Koudougou and the Festival International de Théâtre et de Marionnettes de Ouagadougou. These festivals showcase the diversity and richness of Burkinabé culture and provide visitors with a unique cultural experience.

Burkina Faso is also home to several historical and cultural attractions. The Ruins of Loropéni, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are an ancient fortress that dates back to the 11th century. The city of Bobo-Dioulasso is known for its colonial architecture and vibrant marketplaces. The village of Tiébélé is famous for its traditional painted houses, which are decorated with intricate designs and symbols.

In terms of natural attractions, Burkina Faso offers opportunities for ecotourism and wildlife viewing. The Comoé National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and antelopes. The Sindou Peaks, located in the southwest region of the country, are a series of stunning rock formations that offer breathtaking views.

Despite its potential as a tourist destination, Burkina Faso faces several challenges in developing its tourism industry. These include limited infrastructure, political instability, and security concerns. However, with the right investments and support, Burkina Faso has the potential to become a popular destination for travellers seeking an authentic African experience.

Conclusion: Burkina Faso is a fascinating and diverse country with a rich cultural heritage, unique natural resources, and a growing economy. Despite its challenges, the country has made significant progress in recent years and offers many opportunities for visitors and investors alike. From its vibrant festivals and historical attractions to its stunning landscapes and wildlife, Burkina Faso has much to offer those who are willing to explore its hidden gems. With continued investment in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and conservation efforts, Burkina Faso has the potential to become a thriving nation in West Africa.