Downtown Bennington Historic District | Bennington

Banfora Market is a central commercial hub located in the city of Banfora, Burkina Faso.

Visual Characteristics

The market is an open-air space characterized by numerous stalls constructed from corrugated metal sheeting and rough-hewn wood. Goods are displayed on tarpaulins spread on the ground or on simple wooden tables. The dominant colors are those of the merchandise: brightly colored textiles, produce, and household items, set against the earthy tones of the unpaved ground and surrounding buildings.

Location & Access Logistics

Banfora Market is situated in the central district of Banfora, approximately 0.5km west of the main N1 highway. Access is directly from Avenue de la Nation. Parking is available on adjacent unpaved lots, often managed by local attendants. Public transport within Banfora typically involves shared taxis or motorcycles, with drop-off points directly at the market perimeter.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The market's origin is tied to the development of Banfora as a regional administrative and commercial center, likely evolving organically from informal trading posts established in the early to mid-20th century. Its purpose has always been to serve as a primary point of exchange for agricultural products, crafts, and manufactured goods for the local population and surrounding rural communities.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe and purchase a wide array of local produce, including mangoes, shea nuts, and millet. Textile vendors offer hand-woven fabrics and dyed cotton. Craftspeople sell wooden carvings and pottery. Bartering is a common practice.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Basic sanitation facilities (latrines) are present but often rudimentary. Shade is provided by the stall coverings and some scattered trees. Cell phone signal (2G/3G) is generally available within the market area. Informal food vendors operate within the market, offering local dishes.

Best Time to Visit

The market is most active from early morning (approximately 6:00 AM) until mid-afternoon (around 3:00 PM). For the most diverse selection of produce, visiting between 7:00 AM and 10:00 AM is recommended. The hottest part of the day is typically between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM.

Facts & Legends

A specific local practice involves the sale of traditional medicinal herbs and roots, with vendors often possessing extensive knowledge of their purported uses. It is said that some of these remedies have been passed down through generations, with origins predating written records of the region.

Nearby Landmarks

• 0.8km East: Banfora Train Station
• 1.2km Southeast: Grande Mosquée de Banfora
• 2.5km Northwest: Cascades de Karfiguéla (access point)
• 4.0km South: Lac de Tengrela