Introduction

Grinding stones play an essential role in the preparation of traditional dishes in Burkina Faso. They are used to grind local cereals such as millet, sorghum, peanuts, and beans to obtain quality flour. This flour is then used as a base for many Burkinabé dishes, such as “tô”. Besides this function, they are also a means of expression, allowing women to share their emotions.

A Vibrant Cultural Heritage

Grinding stones allow grains to be ground in a traditional way, preserving all their flavors and nutrients. The grinding activity takes place on a sort of terrace where each woman sets up her grinding stone, called “neere” in the Mooré language. The art of grinding is passed down from generation to generation by women, who are the guardians of culinary traditions. They master the techniques needed to obtain the perfect flour, which gives a unique texture to dishes. Indeed, before grinding the cereals, they meticulously sort the grains to remove impurities, rocks, or damaged grains. Then, some of them slightly moisten the grains to facilitate grinding and obtain a finer flour. Grinding is done with a regular and constant back-and-forth motion using the “ne-bile,” a stone shaped like a rectangular oval. This ensures a homogeneous and uniform flour. Finally, depending on the type of grain and the desired consistency, they adjust the pressure exerted on the grinding stones by pressing more or less firmly. Beyond its practical function, the use of grinding stones has cultural and social significance in Burkina Faso. It is a space for sharing, conversation, and social bonding, as women gather there, discuss, and exchange news.

A Fascinating Universe

Thanks to grinding stones, women develop bonds of solidarity filled with joy, complicity, and love. That’s why they accompany their grinding work with songs that allow them to express their experiences. They are practiced in different regions of the country, with various cultural variations. They have a simple and repetitive structure, facilitating their memorization and oral transmission. The lyrics address various themes of daily life (joy, love) and denounce the social injustices they face. An example is the song “M sid raabo” (my husband’s desire), which describes the physical, verbal, and psychological violence inflicted by some men on women. They are a weapon that allows women to externalize their feelings and support each other.

Conclusion

Grinding stones symbolize the authenticity and culinary identity of Burkina Faso. As a key element of local gastronomy, they contribute to preserving the country’s cultural richness. Beyond this function, they serve as a channel for entertainment, satire, and solidarity among women through the songs associated with them.