On October 6, 2026, Minister of State for Agriculture, Ismaël Sombié, conducted a field visit to a farm in Saaba and a rice field in Komki-Ipala, Burkina Faso, to monitor the 2026-2027 agricultural campaign in Kadiogo. The minister began his visit at a 7-hectare farm established in 2021, focusing on dairy production. The farm has 151 heads of mixed-breed cattle, including 81 Holstein, 55 Montbéliard, and 15 Goudali.

The farm also produces fish, with 30 tons of tilapia and 60 tons of clarias, in addition to poultry and fodder crops like maralfalfa and Azzola. Minister Sombié then visited the Tintilou rice exploitation in Komki-Ipala, covering 30 hectares with 312 farmers, including 182 women, cultivating Orylux rice. At the time of his visit, the crops were at the maturation stage, with prospects for a good harvest.

According to Aïcha Sana, Director of Regional Agriculture for Kadiogo, the region experienced late and irregular rainfall, but the situation stabilized with subsequent rainfall. She noted that Kadiogo aims to produce 65,000 tons of cereals and expressed hope for continued rainfall until October 10 to ensure crop maturation and meet objectives. Minister Sombié's visit also provided an opportunity for local women to express gratitude for support received from his department.

The women appreciated the provision of seeds, quality fertilizers, and drying equipment but requested a borehole to enable dry-season vegetable production after the rice harvest. Minister Sombié responded positively to their request, promising to provide a borehole to facilitate their production plans. This initiative aligns with efforts to enhance agricultural productivity and resilience in the region.

The agricultural campaign in Kadiogo has shown promise, with the rice field visit indicating potential for a good harvest. Minister Sombié's engagement with local farmers and cooperatives underscores the government's commitment to supporting the agricultural sector. By addressing the challenges faced by farmers, the government aims to improve food security and economic stability in Burkina Faso.

The visit also highlights the importance of collaboration between government agencies, farmers, and local communities in achieving agricultural development goals. By working together, stakeholders can identify and address key challenges, such as access to water and equipment, to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability.

Overall, Minister Sombié's visit to the farm and rice field in Kadiogo demonstrates the government's focus on promoting agricultural growth and development in Burkina Faso. The provision of a borehole and continued support for farmers reflect efforts to build a resilient and productive agricultural sector.

Key points

  • Minister Ismaël Sombié visits agricultural projects in Kadiogo to assess progress of 2026-2027 campaign
  • Government provides support to farmers, including seeds, fertilizers, and equipment
  • Local women request and receive promise of borehole for dry-season vegetable production

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.