Burkina Faso: Statistical Overview

Total Population: 23,548,781

Natural Increase: 2.2%

Density: 82 Inhabitants/km²

Urban Population: 33.2%

Ethnic Origins: There are no official data on ethnic groups in Burkina Faso. However, the country has about sixty ethnic groups of unequal demographic importance, which do not always occupy precise geographical areas. Among the many ethnic groups are the Yarse, Dioula, Peul, Songhay, Gourounsi, Gourmantché and Mossé. (Burkinabe National Tourist Office)

Official Language: French

Other Languages Spoken: It is estimated that 70 languages are spoken in Burkina Faso, of which about 66 are indigenous. The main languages are Mossi, Dyula, Fulfulde and Gourmanché.

Business Language(s): French

Religion: Muslim 63.8%, Roman Catholic 20.1%, Animiste 9%, Protestant 6.2%, other 0.2%, none 0.7%

Literacy Rate: 23.6%

Area: 274,200 km²

Type of State: Presidential republic. As of 2025, Burkina Faso remains under military rule, and the transition back to a civilian-led presidential republic has been repeatedly delayed.

Type of Economy: Low-income, primarily agricultural economy dependent on international aid..
The economy is slowing down due to security and political tensions affecting economic activity and agricultural production, although efforts are being made to maintain investment in infrastructure.

HDI*: 0.459/1

HDI (World Rank): 186/192

Telephone Code:
To call from Burkina Faso, dial 00
To call Burkina Faso, dial +226

Internet Suffix: .bf

Households with a computer: 6.3 per 100 Inhabitants

Telephone Lines: 0.8 per 100 Inhabitants

Internet Users: 17.0 per 100 Inhabitants

Access to Electricity: 21.7% of the Population