History

This Order was established by Decree on August 6, 1993, and has since replaced the National Order of Upper Volta, the Order of the Torch of the Revolution, and the Order of the Star of Nahouri. It is awarded to Burkinabé civilians and military personnel in recognition of personal merit and exceptional service rendered to the nation. It may also be awarded posthumously for acts of bravery.

The Knight is awarded for a minimum of 15 years of meritorious service. Knights and Officers may be promoted to the next grade after an additional 5 years of service, Commanders after 4 years, and Grand Officers after 3 years. These service requirements may be waived or reduced under exceptional circumstances - such as wartime, when an injured recipient may benefit from halved service requirements.

The Grand Cross Breast Star, the Collar Breast Star, and the Grand Officer Breast Star are identical. The obverse inscription translates to "National Order."