History |
The country's history was characterized by the existence of powerful kingdoms in the east and center of the country (Ouagadougou, Tenkodogo, Yatenga Gourma).Colonized by France in the late nineteenth century, the country, known as Upper Volta, gained independence in 1960.
On August 4, 1984, Upper Volta changed its name to Burkina Faso, which means "Home of the persons of integrity, courageous and worthy of respect." Its motto is "Unity, Progress, Justice"
The country is currently headed by Mr. Blaise Compaore, the first elected President of the 4th Republic.
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Some dates |
THE HIGH VOLTA IN BURKINA FASO
- September 28, 1919 : Creation of the territory and the colony of Upper Volta
- September 5, 1932 : Suppression of the colony of Upper Volta
- September 4, 1947 : Reconstruction of the Upper Volta
- June 23, 1956 : Adoption of the Framework Act granting internal autonomy to Africans
- December 11, 1958 : Proclamation of the Republic of Upper Volta
- February 28, 1959 : Approval by the Assembly of the Constitution of the First Republic
- August 5, 1960 : Proclamation of Independence of the Republic of Upper Volta
- January 3, 1966 : End of the First Republic
- June 14, 1970 : Constitutional Referendum (Second Republic)
- February 8, 1974 : End of the Second Republic
- November 27, 1977 : Constitutional Referendum (Third Republic)
- November 25, 1980 : End of the Third Republic
- August 4, 1983 : People's Democratic Revolution
- August 4, 1984 : Change of Name in BURKINA FASO
Elected institutions of the Fourth Republic
- June 2, 1991 : Constitutional Referendum (Fourth Republic)
- December 1, 1991 : Election of Mr Blaise Compaore, President of the Republic
- May 24, 1992 : Legislative elections
- February 12, 1995 : Municipal Elections
- May 11 1997 : General election
- November 15, 1998 : Election of Mr Blaise Compaore , President of the Republic
The other institutions of the Fourth Republic
- Supreme Court : installed September 29, 1991
- The Economic and Social Council : created May 15, 1959 and May 13, 1993
- The Ombudsman of Burkina Faso : appointed 29 December 1994
- The House of Representatives : December 28, 1995 installed
- The Supreme Council of Information : installed March 28, 1996
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Population
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With over 10 million inhabitants, Burkina Faso is one of the most populous states in West Africa. Its population is composed of various ethnic groups : Mossi, Gourounsi, Lobi, Bobo, Fulani, Gourmantché, Senufo, Bissa, Mande, etc..
We call the people of Burkina Faso Burkinabe (invariable). |
