Faso Dan Fani (FDF)

“To wear the Faso Dan Fani is an economic, cultural and political act of defiance to imperialism,” said Thomas Sankara in 1986.

The traditional Burkinabé woven loincloth, the Faso Dan Fani, is made up of several strips which are then assembled to form a large fabric. Originally from Burkina-Faso, Faso Dan Fani which means "woven loincloth of the homeland" is a fabric woven with cotton threads. It was the legendary Thomas Sankara who, in a desire to promote the riches of his country through his products, brought this noble fabric to the fore. A fervent defender of the emancipation of women through the weaving trade, he enabled them to become major players in the local economy.

“”In every village in Burkina Faso, we know how to grow cotton. In all the villages, women know how to spin cotton, men know how to weave this thread in loincloths and other men know how to sew these loincloths in clothes. We must not be a slave to what others produce.” Thomas Sankara made it mandatory that the Faso Dan Fani be worn in the workplace.

“We must not be a slave to what others produce.” ~ Thomas Sankara

 

Burkina Faso is one Africa’s top cotton producers. According to an article by Africa News, ‘over 90% of its output was classed as high quality long- or medium-staple by the country’s cotton companies.’ (The length of the fibre is a quality indicator.

Sankara was determined to promote the liberation of women through work and the development of national productions. An Advocate or Women’s rights, he had five women in cabinet during his term among other notable moves.

Weaving has always been part of their tradition and supporting the use of the cloth meant growing employment. While men would weave the cotton thread into cloth, women would traditionally be tasked with the spinning. Gradually, women managed to adopt the weaving business as well.