Manga — The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal and Fisheries Resources has initiated a significant subsidy effort as part of its 2024 fodder production campaign, providing 2,300 tonnes of seeds at a reduced cost to bolster livestock farming. The launch event was held yesterday in Manga, the capital of the Center-South region.

According to Burkina Information Agency, Secretary General of the Center-South region, and Amadou Diallo, Chief of Staff of the Minister Delegate in charge of Animal Resources, the ceremony marked the beginning of a comprehensive plan to support livestock breeders. The government’s initiative also includes the distribution of 8,553 tonnes of agro-industrial by-products, 75 kits for the valorization of these by-products, 160 kits for fodder production, and 1000 hayloft construction kits.

Livestock breeding, contributing over 18% to Burkina Faso’s GDP and engaging more than 80% of the population, is vital for the country’s economy. To further aid this sector, the government is promoting good practices in fodder production and preservation to address the recurring feed shortages during the dry season. This year, the fodder availability is estimated at 13,522,026 tonnes of dry matter, covering approximately 76% of the national requirement of 17,826,157 tonnes.