An Investigation on Escort Interpreting Practice in Burkina Faso

This article examines the practice of escort interpreting in Burkina Faso, with a focus on professional considerations, including the profiles, roles, and responsibilities of practitioners. By cross-referencing the results obtained from questionnaires and interviews, and drawing on Tseng's model of professionalisation, the study reveals that escort interpreting is predominantly performed by bilingual guides who lack formal training as professional interpreters. Their responsibilities often extend beyond mere interpretation, which is occasionally overlooked. The findings indicate a significant lack of structure and clear role definitions within the escort interpreting profession in Burkina Faso. This situation suggests that escort interpreting in Burkina Faso is characterised by an organisational void, necessitating action from relevant stakeholders to enhance both tourism and interpreting practices.