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Learn How to Pronounce Bobo Dioulasso | YouPronounce.it

How to Pronounce Bobo Dioulasso

Quick Answer: The name Bobo Dioulasso is pronounced [bo.bo.dju.la.so].
(Listen to the audio below for the stress and intonation)

Meaning and Context

Bobo Dioulasso, the vibrant second-largest city in Burkina Faso, serves as the nation's primary economic and cultural hub in the west. Founded in the 15th century, it is historically known as the "city of the Bobo-Dioula," reflecting its origins as a major settlement for the Bobo and Dioula peoples along ancient trans-Saharan trade routes. The city is renowned for its well-preserved Sudanese-style mud-brick architecture, epitomized by the iconic Grand Mosque of Bobo-Dioulasso, and its dynamic arts scene, including traditional mask-making and the internationally celebrated National Culture Week festival. As a key center for commerce and transportation, Bobo Dioulasso's economy thrives on agriculture, particularly cotton and grain, and its bustling markets like the Grand Marché. Its unique blend of historical significance, cultural tourism, and economic activity makes it an indispensable destination for understanding Burkina Faso's heritage and contemporary life.

Common Mistakes and Alternative Spellings

The standard and correct spelling is Bobo-Dioulasso, with a hyphen. However, the hyphen is frequently omitted in common usage and international media, leading to the prevalent variant Bobo Dioulasso. Common misspellings and typos arise from phonetic interpretations or confusion with similar place names; these include "Bobo-Dioulaso" (dropping one 's'), "Bobo Dioula," "Bobo-Doulasso," and "Bobo Djoulasso." Another frequent error is the anglicized simplification to just "Bobo," which is ambiguous as it can refer to the broader Bobo ethnic group or region. When writing for formal or encyclopedic purposes, using the hyphenated form is recommended for precision, though the unhyphenated version is widely accepted.

Example Sentences

Travelers seeking an authentic West African cultural experience often include Bobo Dioulasso on their itinerary to visit its centuries-old Grand Mosque.

The bustling artisanal quarters of Bobo Dioulasso are where master craftsmen create intricate bronze statues and traditional Bwa masks.

As a major commercial nexus, the city's economy is fueled by goods passing through Bobo Dioulasso from Côte d'Ivoire and Mali.

During the hot season, residents of Bobo Dioulasso gather in the shade of the giant kapok tree near the Place de la Nation.

Researchers studying Sudanese-Sahelian architecture frequently analyze the construction techniques used in the historic districts of Bobo Dioulasso.

Related Pronunciations


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