CHAPTER TWO: HISTORICAL BACKGROUND AND CURRENT CHALLENGES _____________________________________________________________________ 117. The geographic centrality of Burkina Faso in West Africa, coupled with Burkina Faso’s legacy of bringing commerce, culture and civilisation to the north, south, east and west of the subregion, are further assets. 118. Although scarce, natural soil and subsoil wealth nevertheless constitutes an economic asset which, with the appropriate know-how, can be developed in order to construct an emerging economy by 2025. In this context, the watercontrol capacity that has been developed by the country over the years is to be welcomed. 119. Finally, there is the visionary sense of Burkina Faso’s leadership. This must be developed and strengthened in order to spearhead the transformations required for the development of the Burkina Faso of tomorrow. Table no. 2.1: Chronology of political events from 1958 to 2008 Heads of state Dates Events Mr Maurice Yaméogo 28 September 1958 Referendum on the independence of Burkina Faso (7 September 1958 – 3 January 1966) 11 December 1958 Proclamation of the republic 11 December 1959 The president of the Council of Ministers becomes the head of state, with the title of President of Upper Volta 5 August 1960 20 September 1960 General Sangoulé Lamizana (3 January 1966 – 25 November 1980) Proclamation of independence Admission of Upper Volta to the UN 3 October 1965 Re-election of Maurice Yaméogo 3 January 1966 Popular revolt – President Maurice Yaméogo is overthrown and the army, led by Lieutenant Colonel Sangoulé Lamizana, takes over power 5 January 1966 Suspension of the first constitution and dissolution of the National Assembly 15 June 1970 20 December 1970 Approval of the second constitution and birth of the Second Republic Legislative elections 63