Ouagadougou: The Minister of Agriculture, Commander Isma«l Sombi©, has initiated the cleaning of 25 hectares of the Boulbi dam in the commune of Komsilga, near Ouagadougou. This effort aims to mobilize over 100,000 cubic meters of water to boost agricultural production.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the National Society for Land Development and Rural Equipment (SONATER) will carry out the work, which is expected to continue until the end of May. The project will clear 25 hectares of infrastructure, enhancing the dam's capacity and contributing to regional development.

The Minister of Agriculture, Commander Isma«l Sombi©, emphasized that this initiative aligns with the vision of President of Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traor©, who prioritizes rural development. The Boulbi dam, which is 74 years old, plays a crucial role in both animal consumption and irrigation, supporting the economic and social growth of the commune.

Commander Sombi© noted that Captain Ibrahim Traor© instructed the commencement of dredging work due to the dam's importance for peri-urban production and food security. The cleaning operation has expanded from an initial 14.25 hectares to 25 hectares, aiming to create more agricultural jobs and move towards the food self-sufficiency advocated by the President.

The minister also urged local populations to engage responsibly, promoting civic-mindedness and good practices around the dam to ensure the project's success. Geotechnical surveys indicate the dam's silting ranges from 0.5 to 2 meters.

Jean Calixte Nikiema, director of infrastructure and agricultural development at SONATER, stated that the work would restore the dam's water storage capacity, which has been compromised by silting.