Collecting postage stamps from West Africa
Collecting postage stamps from West Africa provides a fascinating look into the rich and diverse cultures, histories, and landscapes of this vibrant region. West Africa, with its mix of former British, French, Portuguese, and other colonies, has a wide array of stamps that reflect its colonial past and post-independence developments. Below in the list you will find a country or region of your choice based on geographical division (Michel’s stamp catalogue)
Benin (Dahomy)
- The region became a French colony in the late 19th century and gained independence in 1960. The country was initially known as Dahomey before being renamed Benin in 1975.
Burkina Faso (Upper Volta)
- Burkina Faso, known as Upper Volta during the colonial period, was a French colony until it gained independence on August 5, 1960.
Cameroon
- Cameroon has a complex colonial history, having been administered by Germany, and later divided into British and French mandates after World War I.
Cape Verde
- Cape Verde was a Portuguese colony until it gained independence on July 5, 1975.
French West Africa
- Prior to the establishment of the federation, each colony issued its own stamps, often featuring French colonial administrators, local scenery, and indigenous wildlife.
Gambia
- Gambia was a British colony from the late 19th century until it gained independence on February 18, 1965.
Ghana
- Ghana was a British colony known as the Gold Coast until it gained independence on March 6, 1957, becoming the first African country to do so.
Guinea
- Guinea was a French colony known as French Guinea until it gained independence on October 2, 1958
Guinea Bissau
- Guinea-Bissau, located on the west coast of Africa, was formerly known as Portuguese Guinea until it gained independence from Portugal on September 24, 1973.
Ivory Coast
- Ivory Coast was a French colony until it gained independence on August 7, 1960.