Top Agro Sarl and AuxFin Burkina Faso recently organized a national workshop to evaluate and improve the use of organo-mineral fertilizers and biofertilizers among producers. The workshop brought together producers from various provinces and stakeholders in the agricultural sector. The goal was to strengthen producers' knowledge of good fertilization practices and assess the operation conducted by the two structures to facilitate access to quality fertilizers at an affordable price.
The workshop highlighted the importance of using fertilizers reasonably. El Hadj Harouna Zoundi, Managing Director of Top Agro Sarl, emphasized that the company's fertilizer formulation combines organic and mineral components. This combination aims to improve soil fertility and provide crops with necessary mineral elements. However, Zoundi stressed that fertilizer application must be done at the right time and in the right quantity to avoid compromising the investment.
Bakary Sermé, technical assistant at the Directorate-General of Plant Production, represented the Minister of Agriculture. He recalled that fertilization should consider crop needs, soil characteristics, and production objectives. Sermé emphasized that access to organo-mineral fertilizers and biofertilizers is an opportunity to improve agricultural productivity, but it must be accompanied by adapted use.
The workshop reviewed the "10,000 tonnes of fertilizer" operation implemented by Top Agro Sarl and AuxFin Burkina Faso. The operation aimed to facilitate access to quality fertilizers for G50 groups in the AuxFin network. However, the implementation was disrupted by a prolonged shortage of raw materials necessary for fertilizer production. This shortage led to delivery delays, tensions, and mistrust among some producers.
The shortage of raw materials was exacerbated by the prioritization of state needs, reducing access to available stocks for private partners. The consequences included increased logistical costs for Top Agro Sarl, estimated at over 110 million FCFA. The difficulties led the two partners to reassess their approach to future operations.
One of the key lessons learned from the operation was the need for regular, transparent, and proactive communication with producers, especially in situations that may affect the operation. The workshop provided a platform for producers to share their experiences, identify challenges, and suggest adjustments for future operations.
The partnership between Top Agro Sarl and AuxFin Burkina Faso aims to support producers in Burkina Faso by providing access to quality fertilizers and promoting good fertilization practices. The workshop demonstrated the commitment of both structures to improving agricultural productivity and sustainability in the country.
Key points
- The workshop emphasized the importance of reasoned use of fertilizers to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability.
- The "10,000 tonnes of fertilizer" operation faced significant challenges, including a shortage of raw materials and logistical issues.
- The partnership between Top Agro Sarl and AuxFin Burkina Faso aims to support producers in Burkina Faso by providing access to quality fertilizers and promoting good fertilization practices.
