Meeting with Roukiata Ouedraogo in Ouagadougou
In the heart of Ouagadougou, a unique literary encounter unfolds. For the first time, an author opens up about her roots in an intimate setting, sharing stories that blend humor, nostalgia, and deep reflection. Roukiata Ouedraogo, a talented Franco-Burkinabè writer, humorist, and actress, invites listeners to discover the vibrant layers of her life—from her early years in Burkina Faso to her artistic journey in France.
From Ouagadougou to Paris: a life shaped by contrasts
« I am a writer, humorist, and actress of Franco-Burkinabè heritage. Born in Burkina Faso, I grew up between Fada N’Gourma and Ouagadougou before settling in France in the early 2000s. My artistic path has been forged at the intersection of theater, writing, humor, radio, and activism. » — Roukiata Ouedraogo
In this heartfelt conversation recorded in Ouagadougou, she reflects on her childhood, the challenges she faced, and the battles she has fought. Her words paint a vivid picture of a life marked by resilience, creativity, and an unwavering connection to her homeland.
Literary works and personal memories
Books discussed in the interview:
« In her tiny attic room in Paris’s 18th arrondissement, Roukiata packs her bags: tomorrow, she returns home to Burkina Faso. What to take, what to choose, what to leave behind? How to make everyone happy without leaving empty-handed? Between colorful tops from Paname Tati that her cousins will fight over and a two-slice toaster with a crumb tray for her mother, Roukiata recounts her wild youth as a young woman from the working-class neighborhoods of Ouagadougou, all the way to her life today in Paris’s ‘Little Africa.’ »
She revisits the vivid scenes of neighborhood life: the sizzling grills of bicycle chicken vendors, the sharp-tongued women of the district, the hairdressers of Château-Rouge. She recounts the flirtation tactics of the local boys and the clever strategies to outsmart her father, whom she humorously nicknamed ‘Chien Méchant’ to avoid missing the high school dance. Accompanied by the lively illustrations of Aude Massot, this book is a tribute to childhood, family, friendship, and the beauty of difference. It’s a story that makes you laugh—often—but also one that stirs the soul. »
With a light yet nostalgic touch, Roukiata recounts her early years in Burkina Faso. The scorching droughts and torrential rains, the warmth of its people, the struggles of corruption and poverty. She speaks of her family, the injustice they endured when her father was arrested. Above all, she honors her mother—a towering figure, a ‘rock’ who single-handedly raised her seven children, battling to make ends meet by selling her delicious honey galettes on the doorstep. To young Roukiata, these galettes carried the taste of childhood and the homeland she still cherishes today.
Key takeaways from the interview
- Childhood memories: A vivid portrayal of life in Burkina Faso’s neighborhoods, filled with humor and warmth.
- Family resilience: The story of a mother’s strength in the face of adversity and her role in shaping Roukiata’s identity.
- Artistic journey: How her experiences in theater, writing, and humor have influenced her work and activism.
- Literary contributions: Insights into her books Ouagadougou presse and Du miel sous les galettes, which blend personal narrative with social commentary.
Official website of Roukiata Ouedraogo
Musical illustration: Ouagadougou – DESIRE SANKARA
