KOMSILGA — In a recent panel discussion on agroecology held in Komsilga, Burkina Faso, local farmer and breeder Saïdou Ouédraogo voiced strong opposition to the reliance on corn for achieving food sovereignty in the region.
According to Burkina Information Agency, sorghum and millet are more suitable crops for Burkina Faso’s agricultural future due to their lower water and input requirements. The discussion took place on the sidelines of the International Agricultural and Livestock Show (SIAEL), in partnership with the Network of Peasant Organizations and West African Agricultural Producers (ROPPA).
Ouédraogo expressed concern that the promotion of corn as a staple for food sovereignty has led to the neglect of traditional grains like sorghum and millet. He highlighted that Western countries are now turning to sorghum to address climate change challenges, underscoring its suitability for less resource-intensive farming. “Sorghum requires less water and fewer inputs,” Ouédraogo stated, advocating for a return to more sustainable agricultural practices.
The panel also featured insights from Clémence Samba Lankoandé, a sustainable development economist, who praised agroecology as the “golden method” for nourishing populations healthily. She emphasized the benefits of using natural fertilizers and combating pests without relying on harmful pesticides and chemical fertilizers, which can lead to soil degradation and food poisoning.
However, Lankoandé cautioned that transitioning to agroecology could initially result in reduced crop yields, urging support for farmers during this period through financing and other means to mitigate temporary production declines. This transition phase, she argued, is crucial for long-term soil health and sustainability.
Malian rice producer Farilou Boly also contributed to the discussion, advocating for a balanced approach to chemical input use. While acknowledging the detrimental effects of these substances on soil quality and public health, Boly argued for their careful management rather than outright elimination. This approach, he suggested, would ensure the sustainability of agricultural lands for future generations.
The sentiments expressed during the panel reflect a growing consensus among farmers and experts in the region regarding the importance of sustainable farming practices. By focusing on crops like sorghum and millet and adopting agroecological methods, Burkina Faso can work towards achieving food sovereignty in a manner that is both environmentally responsible and conducive to public health.