🇧🇫Burkina Faso
About Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso, a landlocked nation in West Africa, dazzles visitors with its warm hospitality, vibrant markets, and a tapestry of cultures woven from over 60 ethnic groups.
The country sits on the gentle slopes of the Guinean savanna, featuring the rugged sandstone cliffs of the Banfora Cascades, the sweeping grasslands of the Mossi Plateau, and the seasonal waters of the Niger River’s tributaries that shape its agricultural heartland.
Burkinabé culture bursts to life in rhythmic drumming, colorful festivals such as the annual FESPACO film celebration, and a cuisine rich in millet, sorghum, and spicy sauces, where dishes like tô and ragout garnished with fresh peanuts reflect both tradition and creativity.
In 1960, Upper Volta gained independence from France and, in 1984, renamed itself Burkina Faso—meaning “land of upright people”—under the revolutionary leadership of Thomas Sankara, whose policies emphasized self‑reliance and social justice.
Key Facts
- Burkina Faso is one of the world’s top producers of shea butter, a key ingredient in cosmetics and food.
- Population (2023 estimate): roughly 22 million; total area: about 274,200 km².
- The country has a youthful demographic, with over 60% of its citizens under the age of 25.
Country Details
Capital
Ouagadougou
Region / Subregion
Africa / Western Africa
Native Name
Burkina Faso
Nationality
Burkinabe
Currency
West African CFA franc (XOF - CFA)
Phone Code
226
Top-Level Domain
.bf
ISO Codes
ISO2: BF / ISO3: BFA
Coordinates
Lat: 13, Lng: -2
Provinces in Burkina Faso
- Balé
- Bam
- Banwa
- Bazèga
- Bougouriba
- Boulgou
- Boulkiemde
- Comoé
- Ganzourgou
- Gnagna
- Gourma
- Houet
- Ioba
- Kadiogo
- Kénédougou
- Komondjari
- Kompienga
- Kossi
- Koulpélogo
- Kouritenga
- Kourwéogo
- Léraba
- Loroum
- Mouhoun
- Nahouri
- Namentenga
- Nayala
- Noumbiel
- Oubritenga
- Oudalan
- Passoré
- Poni
- Sanguié
- Sanmatenga
- Séno
- Sissili
- Soum
- Sourou
- Tapoa
- Tuy
- Yagha
- Yatenga
- Ziro
- Zondoma
- Zoundwéogo
Regions in Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capital of Burkina Faso?
The capital of Burkina Faso is Ouagadougou.
What currency is used in Burkina Faso?
Burkina Faso uses the West African CFA franc (XOF), with the symbol CFA.
Where is Burkina Faso located?
Burkina Faso is located in Western Africa, Africa.
What are people from Burkina Faso called?
People from Burkina Faso are referred to as Burkinabe.
What is the phone calling code for Burkina Faso?
The international dialing code for Burkina Faso is +226.