Economic efficiency of sorghum microfertilizing in smallholder farms in the North-Sudanian Zone of Burkina Faso

Abstract

Themineral fertilizer microdosing (MD) techniquewas disseminated in the North-Sudanian zone of Burkina Faso for 3 years, using various extension tools. This study aimed to analyze the economic efficiency as well as farmers' perception of the use ofMD technique. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected from 60 demonstration plots conducted by innovative farmers and from 300 households, using an interview guide during the focus groups. The results of the demonstration trials showed that this innovation significantly increased (P < 0.05) sorghumproductivity compared to farmer's practice. It even tripled sorghum yields when combined with soil and water conservation (SWC) techniques, and the use of improved seed varieties. It also led to the efficient use of production capital with cost-benefit ratios ranging from 1.3 to 6.9 depending on the sorghum germplasm and its combined use with SWC techniques. Farmers acknowledged the positive effects of MD technique on their socio-economic well-being through higher incomes from sorghum production and improved food availability. These results challenged policy makers to trigger actions aiming at promoting large-scale adoption of MD technique for sustainable local development.