Which Country is Known as the Land of the Upright Men?

Burkina Faso, a country in West Africa, is famously known as the "Land of Upright Men." This name represents the country’s values of honesty and integrity. It is a unique and meaningful identity that sets Burkina Faso apart.

Akansha Arora Published On November 23rd, 2024

Many countries around the world are known by special names that reflect their unique identity, history, or culture. These names often highlight the country’s traditions, natural features, or values. They help people associate each nation with something memorable and meaningful, making the world’s diversity even more fascinating to explore. In this article, we will know about the country which is known as the
“Land of Upright Men.”

Land of the Upright Men

Burkina Faso, a country in West Africa, is famously known as the “Land of Upright Men.” This name represents the country’s values of honesty and integrity. It is a unique and meaningful identity that sets Burkina Faso apart.

Why is Burkina Faso known as the Land of Upright Men?

Burkina Faso is called the “Land of Upright Men” because its name reflects values of honesty and integrity. In 1984, leader Thomas Sankara renamed the country, combining “Burkina” (men of integrity in Mòoré) and “Faso” (father’s house in Dioula). The name symbolizes pride, unity, and the strong character of its people.

History of the Name

In 1984, Thomas Sankara, a revolutionary leader and president of Burkina Faso, changed the country’s name from Upper Volta to Burkina Faso. The new name symbolized a fresh start and a stronger identity for the nation. Sankara believed the name should reflect the pride and integrity of its people.

What does the Land of Upright Mean?

The name Burkina Faso is a combination of two words from the country’s main languages:

Burkina comes from the Mòoré language and means “men of integrity.”
Faso comes from the Dioula language and means “father’s house.”

Together, the name signifies a land of honest and upright people who respect their roots.

What is Burkina Faso Known for?

Burkina Faso is famous for its vibrant arts and culture. It hosts:

FESPACO Film Festival: One of Africa’s biggest film festivals, celebrating African cinema.
SIAO Art and Craft Fair: A major event showcasing traditional crafts and artwork from across Africa.