The Mossi People
The Mossi (also spelled Mosi) are a Gur ethnic group indigenous to present-day Burkina Faso, primarily concentrated in the Volta River basin. They are the country’s largest ethnic group, representing about 52% of the population—approximately 11 million people. The remaining population is made up of more than 60 ethnic groups, including the Gurunsi, Gurma, Senufo, Lobi, Bobo, Bissa, and Fulani. The Mossi speak Mòoré (also called Mooré).
History and Origins
The Mossi originated in what is now Burkina Faso, though sizeable communities also live in neighboring countries such as Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Mali, and Togo. In addition to the Mossi population in Burkina Faso, around two million Mossi live in Côte d’Ivoire.
According to oral tradition, the Mossi people trace their ancestry to the union of Yennenga, a warrior princess of the Mamprusi/Dagomba kingdom, and a Mandé hunter named Rialé.
Yennenga was the daughter of Naa Gbewaa, a ruler in what is now northern Ghana. While riding through her father’s kingdom, she became separated from her people and was rescued by Rialé. The two married and had a son, Ouedraogo, who is regarded as the founding ancestor of the Mossi people.
he Mossi established powerful kingdoms beginning around the 11th century. Although some records were written in Ajami script, much of Mossi history has been preserved through oral tradition, making exact dates difficult to determine.
Renowned for their skilled cavalry, the Mossi expanded their territory across much of present-day Burkina Faso and built a strong and stable empire. Their dominance continued until the 19th century, when French colonial expansion halted their growth and eventually brought the Mossi kingdoms under colonial rule.
Colonial Era
French colonization significantly altered Mossi political structures and reduced the authority of the emperor, known as the Mogho Naaba. During the early stages of French invasion, the Mogho Naaba temporarily withdrew to the Mamprusi kingdom, with which the Mossi maintained close ties. In 1896, he accepted French protectorate status.
Despite colonial rule, the Mogho Naaba retained a degree of symbolic and administrative authority. Today, he remains an important traditional leader and is still consulted on significant social and cultural matters.
Mossi soldiers also played a notable role in World War II as part of the French West African forces known as the Tirailleurs Sénégalais.
Social Organization
Mossi society is structured hierarchically, with family and state forming its foundation. It is divided into two major groups:
1. Nakomse (Political Class)
The Nakomse are descendants of the horsemen who conquered the Mossi plateau. They form the ruling and political class. All Mossi kings (Naba) come from this lineage. They use sculptural figures in political ceremonies to legitimize authority.
2. Tengabisi (People of the Earth)
The Tengabisi are descendants of the earlier farming communities who inhabited the land before Mossi conquest. They are regarded as the spiritual custodians of the land. This group includes:
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Saya (smiths)
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Yarse (weavers and merchants)
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Nyonyose (farmers)
Only the Tengabisi—especially the Nyonyose—traditionally use masks in ceremonies, while the Nakomse use carved figures.
The highest authority in Mossi society is the Mogho Naaba, who resides in Ouagadougou, the historical and present-day capital. Below him are nobles (also Nakomse), usually members of his extended family, who govern territories on his behalf.
Family hierarchy is central to Mossi society. Social identity is strongly collective, and lineage is typically traced patrilineally.
Language
The Mossi speak Mooré, a language in the Western Oti-Volta subgroup of the Gur languages, part of the larger Niger–Congo family. It is spoken mainly in Burkina Faso, as well as in parts of Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire.
While regional dialects exist—such as those spoken in Yatenga, Koupela, and Tenkodogo—they are mutually intelligible.
Cultural Values
Mossi cultural identity centers on four core values:
1. Ancestors
Ancestors are believed to inhabit a spiritual realm where they influence the living. They can offer protection or punishment depending on behavior. Entry into the ancestral world is not automatic; ancestors must accept a deceased descendant.
2. Land
Land is sacred and closely tied to ancestry. It is seen not merely as physical territory but as a spiritual bridge connecting the living to their ancestors. This belief gives land profound cultural significance.
3. Family
Family is the foundation of Mossi society. Collectivism is emphasized over individualism, and personal actions reflect on the entire family. Decisions traditionally require consultation with elders. Inheritance is generally patrilineal, though women may inherit in cases where no male heirs exist.
4. Social Hierarchy and Identity
Mossi identity is deeply connected to social grouping and status. Hierarchy exists at all levels—from imperial authority down to the household. Despite internal diversity, shared language and tradition unify the people.
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