Soil Organic Inputs and Water Conservation Practices Are the Keys of the Sustainable Farming Systems in the Sub-Sahelian Zone of Burkina Faso

Abstract

The sub-sahelian region is confronted to demographic growth and climatic change that impeded the sustainability of environmental resources. Harmful changes in environmental conditions could be compensated by the adaptation of farming practices. In Ziga, located in yatenga region, a research program was occurred between 1980 and 1987. In 2005, a survey in the same village was carried out to assess the evolution of farming practices. According to the enquirie made, two practices, called "zaï" and "djengo", were largelly used to cereals crops. The characteristics of "zaï" and "djengo" practices have been assessed. The practices effects on grain crop yields were measured. The "zaï" characteristics depend on the farm manure availability. In addition, another practice has been noticed in Ziga that was not described in previous works. As the "zaï", the "djengo" practice associated, soil and water conservation techniques and organic matter localized supply. In the case of "djengo", the micro-basin is dug after the first rain. The "djengo" was less expensive in time. These two practices revealed a strategy of farming systems intensification by localization of organic and mineral fertilization, as well as a better management of rainwater. Thus, these practices increased significantly grain crop production. Results also showed that a large tree regeneration occurred in Ziga where "zaï" or "djengo" practices were used. This study highlight that it is necessary to control soil water and manage organic matter resources in farming systems to ensure agrosystem viability as a key of green revolution in the sub Saharan region. (Résumé d'auteur)