Ouagadougou: The Burkinabe Prime Minister, represented by his Minister of State in charge of Territorial Administration, Emile Zerbo, launched the 16th edition of the seed fair for improved plant varieties on Friday in Ouagadougou. This fair aims to promote the use of improved plant varieties to increase agricultural production with a view to achieving food and nutritional sovereignty in Burkina Faso. It is scheduled to take place from May 30 to June 2, 2025, at the Institute of Environment and Agricultural Research (INERA).
According to Burkina Information Agency, the Prime Minister emphasized his government’s focus on agricultural research and innovation to address agricultural challenges. He noted that the initiative is intended to enhance the adoption of research-generated technologies, particularly seeds of improved varieties. The theme for this year, “Contribution of research results to the promotion of agricultural entrepreneurship for nutritional food sovereignty in Burkina Faso,” urges INERA to expand its seed production capabilities.
The government has called on producers to adopt the high-yielding varieties developed by Burkinabe researchers in support of the 2023-2025 agro-pastoral and fisheries offensive, initiated by the President of Burkina Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traor©. Professor Adjima Thiombiano, the Minister in charge of research, highlighted that the seeds provided by INERA are scientifically certified and can achieve yields of up to 40%. He underscored that the fair offers producers quality seeds capable of tackling crop pests, insect issues, climatic challenges, and poor soil conditions.
The 16th edition of the seed fair is co-sponsored by the Minister of Agriculture, Commander Isma«l Sombi©, the Minister of Territorial Administration, Emile Zerbo, and the Minister of the Environment, Roger Barro. This year, the event welcomes participants from Chad, Congo, and the countries of the Alliance of Sahel States (ESA), including Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.