Ouagadougou: The Burkinabe government has officially introduced Faso Danfani, traditional outfits, for magistrates and court clerks during hearings, marking a departure from colonial-era costumes. This change was commemorated at an official ceremony held on Monday, attended by key government officials.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Minister of Justice Rodrigue Bayala, representing Prime Minister Dr. Apollinaire Joachim Kyélem of Tambéla, expressed satisfaction at presiding over the ceremony. He highlighted that the initiative not only ends the era of colonial courtroom attire but also inaugurates the use of locally produced garments. Made from cotton woven by Burkinabe women, these new outfits aim to promote local production and cultural identity.
The ceremony in Ouagadougou marked the implementation of this initiative, part of a vision first championed by the late Captain Thomas Sankara and now advanced by President of Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traoré. The adoption of Faso Danfani is intended to boo
st local consumption and invigorate the national economy. Minister Bayala noted that the traditional attire is significantly more economical, costing five times less than the previously imported togas, without compromising on quality.
Abass Nombré, president of the High Court (TGI) of Ouagadougou I, lauded the move as a symbolic gesture towards enhancing Burkina Faso’s cultural identity within its institutions. He emphasized that the event signifies a renewal for the judiciary and a prestigious moment for those involved. Nombré also remarked that the new attire represents a shift in judicial practices and underscores the country’s independence and sovereignty.
This change follows a decree adopted by the Council of Ministers on October 23, 2024, mandating the use of Faso Danfani for courtroom attire, reinforcing Burkina Faso’s commitment to cultural pride and economic sustainability.