Burkina Faso flag

Burkina Faso

Capital

Ouagadougou

Region

Africa

Population

24,070,553

Area (km²)

272,967

💡Quick Summary

Burkina Faso, a landlocked West African nation with a population of around 24 million, spans 272,967 km² and is centered around its bustling capital, Ouagadougou. Known for its gold mining and cotton exports, the country grapples with economic hurdles (GDP data unavailable) amid political instability and jihadist threats. Despite challenges, it boasts a rich cultural tapestry influenced by diverse ethnic groups like the Mossi.

Key Insights

Low Inflation Amidst Economic Challenges

Despite a low GDP per capita of $873.48, Burkina Faso reported a remarkably low inflation rate of 0.743% in 2023. This stability in prices is unusual for a developing economy, especially one facing significant economic and social challenges, and could indicate either effective monetary policy or subdued demand.

Youthful Population with High Fertility and Low Life Expectancy

Burkina Faso exhibits characteristics of a very young population, with a high fertility rate of 4.19 children per woman. This demographic trend, combined with a relatively low life expectancy of 61.09 years, suggests significant pressure on future resources and social services, while also indicating a large proportion of young dependents.

Significant Education Gap: Low Literacy, High Infant Mortality

Burkina Faso faces a substantial challenge in human development, evidenced by a literacy rate of only 41.442%. This low educational attainment is coupled with a high infant mortality rate of 44.800 per 1,000 live births, highlighting critical needs in both education and public health infrastructure.

Limited Access to Electricity Hinders Development

Only 21.700% of Burkina Faso's population has access to electricity, which is a significant barrier to economic development and quality of life. This low access rate impacts everything from education and healthcare to industrial growth and household well-being, especially given the country's low urbanization rate.

Economic Indicators
Latest economic data from World Bank

GDP (Current US$)

$20.11B

Year: 2023

GDP Per Capita

$873.48

GDP Growth (%)

3%

Inflation (%)

0.74%

Unemployment (%)

5.35%

Debt to GDP (%)

61.93%

Source: World Bank • Last updated: 12/24/2025

Historical Trends & Data Visualizations

GDP Growth Rate
Annual percentage change in GDP over time
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230.00%2.00%4.00%6.00%8.00%
  • GDP Growth (%)
Population Growth
Total population over time
201420152016201720182019202020212022202306,000,00012,000,00018,000,00024,000,000
  • Population
Life Expectancy
Average life expectancy at birth (years)
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230.0years20.0years40.0years60.0years80.0years
  • Life Expectancy (years)
Renewable Energy Consumption
Percentage of total energy from renewable sources
2014201520162017201820192020202120220.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%
  • Renewable Energy (%)
GDP Per Capita
Economic output per person (current US$)
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023$0$250$500$750$1,000
  • GDP Per Capita ($)

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