« I am a writer, comedian, and actress of Burkinabè-French heritage. Born in Burkina Faso, I spent my formative years between Fada N’Gourma and Ouagadougou before relocating to France in the early 2000s. My artistic journey has unfolded at the intersection of theater, writing, humor, radio, and activism. »
Rediscovering roots through literature
In a first-of-its-kind series, Ouagadougou becomes the backdrop for intimate conversations with authors exploring their connection to their homeland. Today, we sit down with Roukiata Ouedraogo, a multifaceted artist whose voice resonates across continents.
The Burkina Faso-born storyteller opens up about her formative years, her artistic awakening, and the battles she has fought along the way. Recorded in the heart of the capital, this long-form interview captures the essence of her journey—from the bustling streets of Ouagadougou to the creative energy of Paris.
A voice shaped by resilience and creativity
With a blend of humor and raw honesty, Roukiata Ouedraogo shares stories from her childhood in Burkina Faso—of the relentless sun and sudden floods, the warmth of its people, and the harsh realities of corruption and poverty. Her narrative is deeply personal, weaving together family struggles, injustice, and the arrest of her father.
At the core of her stories is her mother, a towering figure of strength who single-handedly raised seven children. Despite financial hardship—selling honey-drizzled galettes by the roadside—she instilled in Roukiata a sense of pride and belonging. These galettes, with their golden sweetness, remain a nostalgic symbol of home and childhood.
A tribute to childhood, family, and cultural identity
In her writings, Roukiata Ouedraogo paints vivid portraits of life in Burkina Faso: the bustling markets, the spirited bicycle grillers, the lively gossips of the neighborhood, and the clever tactics used to sneak past stern fathers. Her stories are a celebration of childhood, friendship, and the beauty of difference.
« We laugh at the fiery chicken grillers, the neighborhood gossips, and the hairdressers of Château-Rouge! We’re charmed by the flirting antics of the choco boys and the clever ruses to outsmart the strict father nicknamed ‘Angry Dog’ to make it to the graduating ball. Accompanied by Aude Massot’s lively illustrations, this book is a hymn to childhood, family, friendship, and the celebration of diversity. »
Her books, Ouagadougou presse and Du miel sous les galettes, are more than just collections of memories—they are vibrant celebrations of identity, resilience, and the universal bonds of family. Through her words and illustrations, Roukiata Ouedraogo invites readers to laugh, reflect, and reconnect with their own roots.
Key works featured in the interview
- Ouagadougou presse – A vivid portrayal of life in the streets of Ouagadougou
- Du miel sous les galettes – A heartfelt tribute to family, childhood, and the taste of home
Roukiata Ouedraogo’s official website
Music inspired by Ouagadougou
The interview is enriched with musical interludes, including Ouagadougou – Désiré Sankara, a track that echoes the spirit of the city and its people.