Verified Facts
The official language of Burkina Faso is French, but there are also many local languages spoken throughout the country, with over 60 languages spoken by different ethnic groups.
Quick Facts
Language Overview
The linguistic landscape of Burkina Faso is diverse, with many local languages spoken throughout the country. The most widely spoken local languages are Mooré, Dioula, and Fulfulde, each with its own regional dialects and variations. French, the official language, is widely used in government, education, and formal settings, but English is not as widely spoken, with a Low level of English proficiency. In urban areas, such as the capital city of Ouagadougou, French and local languages are commonly spoken, while in rural areas, local languages are more dominant.
Regional dialects and minority languages are also an important part of the linguistic landscape of Burkina Faso. For example, the Gourmanché language is spoken in the east of the country, while the Bwamu language is spoken in the west. These languages are often used in everyday conversation and are an important part of the cultural identity of the different ethnic groups in the country. Despite the diversity of languages, French remains the primary language used in government, education, and formal settings.
The use of English in Burkina Faso is limited, with only a small percentage of the population speaking English as a second language. However, in tourist areas and among the educated population, English may be more widely spoken. Visitors to the country may find it useful to learn some basic phrases in French and local languages to communicate with the local population.
Essential Phrases
| English | Local Language | Pronunciation | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hello | Bonjour | bone-JOOR | formal |
| Hello | Salut | sah-LOO | informal |
| Thank you | Merci | mur-SEE | |
| Please | S'il vous plaît | see voo play | formal |
| Yes / No | Oui / Non | wee / nohn | |
| Excuse me | Excusez-moi | ex-KOO-zay mwah | formal |
| How much? | Combien ça coûte? | kohm-BYEN sah koo-TAY | |
| Where is...? | Où est...? | oo eh | |
| I don't understand | Je ne comprends pas | zhuh neh kohm-PRAHND pah | |
| Do you speak English? | Parlez-vous anglais? | pahrl-ay voo ahng-LEH | |
| Help! | Au secours! | oh skoor | |
| Goodbye | Au revoir | oh reh-VWAHR | formal |
| Sorry | Désolé | deh-soh-LAY | |
| How are you? | Comment allez-vous? | koh-mohn tah-LAY voo | formal |
| What's your name? | Comment vous appelez-vous? | koh-mohn voo ah-PLAY voo | formal |
| I'm lost | Je suis perdu | zhuh swee pehr-DOO | |
| Where is the restroom? | Où sont les toilettes? | oo sohn ley twah-LETT |
Numbers & Bargaining
| Number | Local Word | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Un | uhn |
| 2 | Deux | duh |
| 3 | Trois | twah |
| 4 | Quatre | kah-tray |
| 5 | Cinq | sank |
| 6 | Six | sees |
| 7 | Sept | seh |
| 8 | Huit | wee |
| 9 | Neuf | nuhf |
| 10 | Dix | dee |
| 100 | Cent | sahnt |
| 1000 | Mille | mee-yay |
Communication Tips
- When communicating with the local population, it's essential to be respectful and polite, using formal titles such as Monsieur or Madame.
- Body language is also important, with direct eye contact and a firm handshake being seen as signs of respect.
- Avoid using gestures that may be considered rude, such as pointing with the left hand or touching someone's head.
- In formal settings, it's best to avoid discussing politics or sensitive topics.
- When bargaining, it's essential to be patient and respectful, with a smile and a sense of humor going a long way.
- Learning a few basic phrases in local languages can go a long way in building relationships with the local population.
- Don't be afraid to ask for help, with many locals happy to assist visitors who make an effort to communicate in their language.
Translation Tools & Resources
- The Google Translate app is a useful tool for translating French and local languages.
- Phrasebooks and language guides can also be helpful for learning basic phrases and vocabulary.
- Language learning apps such as Duolingo can be a great way to learn French and other languages before visiting Burkina Faso.
- Local tour guides can also be a valuable resource, providing insight into the local culture and language.
- Language exchange programs can also be a great way to practice speaking with locals and improve language skills.