Introduction

Burkina Faso is rich of over 60 ethnic groups. Folklore abounds in a variety of cultural practices. One example is the mask. It’s a cultural element with a special place. So what are masks? What is its role in Moaga society? What is its symbolic value?

The Nyonyonse mask

A mask (Gûur-waongo in Mooré) is a mystical, human-shaped figure with an extended head in the form of a stem. It is covered in red or black threads. They are found all over Burkina Faso, but especially in the central plateau and the centre-north of the country. Particularly in Zorgho, Kaya and Boulsa, they are part of the tradition of the Nyonyonsés (known as ten-soba, meaning chief of the land), the first inhabitants of Burkina Faso before the Mossi. There are three types of masks: the male mask (waongo), the female mask (Naalé) and the child one (Yaali). The first, red in colour, is the most active and dances the most. He holds a chicotte and a sword in both hands. The second, in black, is harmless and rare, carrying no weapon and posing no threat. The last, in black or red, has a mystical value, different by its corpulence surmounted by two horns.

A cultural and religious symbol

The mask is seen as a spirit that protects the community, while at the same time providing entertainment. It is the protector of the community. Considered an intermediary between men and ancestors, it manifests itself during rituals, sacrifices and funerals. Through sacrifices, it transmits wishes and offerings to the ancestors. It can be consulted to ward off evil spells, protect the community or make special requests. The mask also arouses curiosity and brings people together when it is used. This is usually during funerals, sacrifices or the ‘soukou’. The latter is a kind of annual festival during which hundreds of masks gather for rituals, including dances and sacrifices. The rhythm of the festival is set by the sound of drums accompanied by the “sougoum-bila” (soukou disciples). These disciples speak to the mask in ‘soukou’, the language of the initiated. According to sources, this is the original language of the Nyonyonsés, now lost due to assimilation into the Mooré language. The mask remains its only and last bulwark.

Conclusion

In Mossi country, the mask occupies an important place: it is the protector of society and provides a means of recreation through the festivities associated with its appearance. It is an admirable way of practising religion while providing entertainment for the population. However, the rise of monotheistic religions, and above all insecurity, have led to fears that this cultural heritage is in danger of disappearing.