The Mossi are the largest ethnic group in Burkina Faso, with significant populations in Ghana, Ivory Coast, and Togo, numbering over 12 million. Known for their ancient kingdoms, hierarchical social structure, and agricultural resilience, the Mossi have dominated the political and cultural landscape of the Volta River region for centuries.

Key Features of the Mossi People

Historical Kingdoms The Mossi established powerful states like the Ouagadougou Kingdom (11th century) and Tenkodogo, ruled by the Mogho Naaba (emperor) in a feudal system. These kingdoms resisted Islamic jihadists and colonial forces until French conquest in 1896.

Agricultural Economy Traditionally farmers, the Mossi cultivate millet, sorghum, and cotton using innovative dry-season techniques. Their collective farming practices (naam) reinforce community bonds while adapting to the harsh Sahel climate.

Social Hierarchy Mossi society is stratified into nobles (nakombse), commoners (talse), and descendants of captives (yarse), with the emperor balancing power among regional chiefs. The naam system governs land rights and labor obligations.

Religious Practices While most Mossi now practice Islam or Christianity, traditional beliefs in Wende (creator god) and ancestor spirits persist. Annual festivals like the Moro-Naba Ceremony in Ouagadougou blend royal pageantry with spiritual rites.

Cultural Arts Mossi artisans excel in bronze casting (lost-wax method), wooden masks, and woven textiles. Their balafon music and masked dances (like the wan-panga) depict historical tales and moral lessons.

Modern Influence The Mossi dominate Burkina Faso’s military and politics, though droughts and urbanization challenge traditions. Their diaspora sustains cultural practices like horseback festivals and oral histories.

The Mossi people’s enduring monarchies, adaptive farming, and artistic legacy cement their role as cultural anchors in West Africa.