Burkina Faso

I would like to share with your readers one of the funniest experiences in my life. This experience is relevant to the visit of Burkina Faso President, Blaise Campaore, to Indonesia.

Last year I was among 200 Humphrey fellows visiting the U.S. We all wore names tags on which our country and names were written. At one gathering, an American lady approached my colleague from Burkina Faso. After reading her name tag, the American lady asked, "Can I call you Burk?"

This shows how little people know about Burkina Faso, regardless of if they are in America or in Indonesia. That is why it is critical, while the president of Burkina Faso is visiting, for the media to give information on Burkina Faso. Perhaps I could help a little.

Burkina Faso is an inland country in west Africa. It was French West Africa, formerly named Upper Volta. Burkina Faso means "The People's Republic of Honest Men." Its population is around seven million, and it has three major religions: animism, Islam and Roman Catholicism.

Besides cotton, Burkina Faso also produces sesame and vegetable oil.

The one person from Burkina Faso I have met left a good impression, and I warmly welcome more cooperation between Burkina Faso and Indonesia.

SIRIKIT SYAH

Surabaya, East Java