Burkina Faso’s President Ibrahim Traoré has banned the use of British and French colonial-style wigs by judges, marking a significant step in decolonizing the country’s judicial system. The ban is part of Traoré’s broader effort to break from colonial traditions and foster a judicial system that reflects Burkina Faso’s cultural identity.
In announcing the decision, President Traoré emphasized the importance of embracing practices that align with the nation’s heritage and sovereignty. The move comes as part of his initiative to promote national pride and reshape the country’s public institutions to better represent its people.
Colonial-era wigs have long been seen as symbols of foreign influence within African legal systems, and Burkina Faso joins a growing number of African nations discarding these relics in favor of indigenous traditions.
The decision reflects a wider cultural shift across the continent, with many countries revisiting their colonial legacies and choosing systems and symbols that resonate more deeply with their populations. This move serves as a symbolic gesture in a broader cultural renaissance that is gaining momentum throughout Africa.
