Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso is a landlocked country in West Africa with a strong cultural identity and a turbulent recent history. Formerly known as Upper Volta, it was renamed in 1984 under President Thomas Sankara, whose legacy still influences national identity.

Since 2015, the country has been severely affected by insecurity linked to armed groups operating across the Sahel. Attacks in northern and eastern regions have caused thousands of deaths and displaced large portions of the population, weakening public services and economic activity.

Politically, Burkina Faso has experienced repeated transitions since the fall of longtime leader Blaise Compaoré in 2014. Military-led authorities say they aim to restore security and rebuild state institutions while redefining international partnerships, sparking both support and concern among a population that has been on a search for long-term stability.

Burkina Faso's agriculture remains vital for employment and food security while gold mining represents a key source of export revenue. Culturally, the country continues to shine through cinema and music.