Monument des Martyrs | Ouagadougou

Information

Landmark: Monument des Martyrs
City: Ouagadougou
Country: Burkina Faso
Continent: Africa

Monument des Martyrs, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, Africa

The Monument des Martyrs is a memorial structure located in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. It commemorates the victims of the 2014 popular uprising.

Visual Characteristics

The monument features a central concrete obelisk, approximately 20 meters in height. Its base is a circular concrete platform. The obelisk is painted white, with a red band encircling its upper section. Surrounding the obelisk are several concrete pillars, each topped with a stylized flame sculpture made of metal.

Location & Access Logistics

The monument is situated in the center of Ouagadougou, approximately 1 kilometer south of Place de la Nation. Access is via Avenue Kenedy. Public parking is available on the surrounding streets, though it can be limited during peak hours. No specific public transport routes directly serve the monument, but several bus lines operate along Avenue Kenedy, with stops within a 5-minute walk.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Monument des Martyrs began in 2015 and was completed in 2016. It was designed by the architectural firm Studio K. Its purpose is to honor citizens who died during the events of October 30-31, 2014, which led to the resignation of President Blaise Compaoré.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the monument's architecture and read the commemorative plaques. The surrounding plaza is suitable for quiet reflection. Photography of the structure is permitted.

Infrastructure & Amenities

There are no dedicated restrooms or food vendors at the monument site. Shade is minimal, provided only by the monument's structure itself during certain times of day. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong in this central urban area.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal photography lighting, early morning (07:00-09:00) or late afternoon (16:00-18:00) is recommended, avoiding direct overhead sun. The weather in Ouagadougou is generally hot and dry, with the best months for comfortable outdoor visits being November through February.

Facts & Legends

A specific detail often overlooked is the symbolic representation of the flames atop the pillars; they are intended to signify the enduring spirit of the Burkinabè people and the light of democracy.