INERA Bobo-Dioulasso: The “USA Yidgiri” project organized a study trip from November 14 to 16, 2024, in Bobo-Dioulasso, aimed at enhancing the skills of 30 small ruminant producers from the Center-North region. This initiative was designed to strengthen their technical and organizational capacities in the production, cutting, conservation, and marketing of fodder.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the research station of the Institute of Environment and Agricultural Research of Farakoba in Bobo-Dioulasso hosted these producers as part of the study trip. The “USA Yidgiri” project facilitated this trip to provide the producers with hands-on experience and knowledge exchange in the small ruminant value chain. Over the course of their stay, the producers engaged in various activities led by the INERA research team.
Dr. Nouhoun Zampaligre, a research master in animal systems, elaborated on the purpose of the study trip. He emphasized that it was an opportunity to share experiences and learn about innovati
ons in fodder cultivation research. Dr. Zampaligre highlighted the role of research in developing technologies and innovations to address rural development challenges. This trip is part of a broader partnership between “Yidgiri” and INERA in Farakoba.
As part of the ongoing collaboration, the 30 producers received training in fodder production techniques in 2023 and were provided with quality seeds. Building on their 2023 experience, they participated in an INERA refresher session in 2024 to deepen their understanding of fodder production technology. The latest training focused on enhancing the nutritional value of straw through treatment with urea and molasses. Dr. Zampaligre noted that these techniques help preserve fodder quality, benefiting livestock.
The regional coordinator of the project in the Centre-North, Edouard Sédogo, emphasized the importance of food security in areas where pasture scarcity increases production costs. He expressed confidence that mastering fodder production techniques would im
prove the quality of animals for market and boost producers’ incomes.
Edouard Sédogo explained that the “Yidgiri” project is part of a USAID program aimed at strengthening the resilience of vulnerable populations in the Center-North, Sahel, and East regions. The project targets improving the income of 85,000 producers, with a focus on women and young people, across small ruminants, poultry, and cowpea sectors.
To achieve its goals, the project has organized producers into cooperatives and connected them with service providers, buyers, and processors. It has also developed market platforms such as annual fairs. Mady Sawadogo, president of the Provincial Union of Small Ruminant Breeders in Sanematenga, acknowledged the successful implementation of fodder production techniques by trained producers. Asséta Ouédraogo, another participant, expressed optimism about producing her own fodder.
