The coat of arms of Burkina Faso is a symbolic representation of the nation's identity, heritage, and values. Rooted in the country's history and aspirations, the emblem combines elements that evoke the strength, unity, and progress of Burkina Faso.
Main Components and Their Symbolism
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Central Shield: At the heart of the coat of arms is a shield featuring the national flag's design. The flag consists of two horizontal bands of red and green, separated by a yellow five-pointed star in the center. The red symbolizes the revolutionary spirit of the people, the green represents the country's lush vegetation, and the yellow star stands for guiding light and hope.
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White Horses: Flanking the shield on either side are two white horses, depicted in a rearing position. Horses, in many cultures, symbolize strength, power, and freedom. In the context of Burkina Faso, they represent the nation's vitality and determination to move forward.
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Crossed Spears: Behind the shield, two spears are crossed, pointing upwards. Spears have historically been instruments of defense and hunting. Their inclusion signifies the country's readiness to defend its sovereignty and its commitment to peace and security.
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Banner: Above the shield and the crossed mattocks is a banner with the inscription "BURKINA FASO," identifying the nation to which this emblem belongs.
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Scroll with National Motto: Below the shield, there's a scroll bearing the national motto of Burkina Faso: "Unité - Progrès - Justice," which translates to "Unity - Progress - Justice." This motto succinctly captures the country's guiding principles. Unity underscores the importance of national cohesion, Progress signifies the country's continuous growth and advancement, and Justice stands for the fairness and righteousness that Burkina Faso strives to uphold.
- Ears of Sorghum: At the base of the coat of arms, on either side of the scroll, are ears of sorghum. Sorghum is a staple crop in Burkina Faso and represents the agricultural foundation of the country.
In summary, the coat of arms of Burkina Faso is not just a symbol but a narrative. Each element tells a story of the nation's past, its values, and its aspirations for the future. Whether it's the proud horses that signify strength or the mattocks that highlight hard work, every detail of the coat of arms has been thoughtfully chosen to represent Burkina Faso and its people.