Key Facts about Burkina Faso

About Burkina Faso:

• It is a landlocked country in western Africa.
• Borders:  It is bounded by Niger to the east, Mali to the north and west, and Benin, Togo, Ghana, and Ivory Coast to the south. 
• Capital: Ouagadougou
• Burkina Faso, previously known as Upper Volta, was once part of French West Africa since 1896. It gained independence from France in 1960.
• Geography:
  • It is predominantly characterized by savannahs, plateaus, and low mountains in the southwest.
  • The northern region, known as the Sahel, is arid and desert-like.
• Languages:
  • The official language of Burkina Faso is French, which is used in government and education.
  • There are many indigenous languages spoken throughout the country, with Moore (Mossi) being one of the most widely spoken.
• The economy is largely based on agriculture, which employs over 80% of the workforce.
• Government: It is a republic with a presidential system of government. It has experienced political transitions and changes in leadership over the years.

Q1) What is a Coup?

A coup, short for “coup d’état,” is a sudden and often violent overthrow of a government, typically carried out by a faction within the military or other governmental institutions. Coups can also involve civilian groups, political parties, or other individuals conspiring to seize power unlawfully. The objective of a coup is to replace the existing government, often against the wishes of the government’s leaders or without their consent.

Source: Burkina Faso junta says it foiled coup attempt

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