Burkina Faso: The country strengthens its food sovereignty with a new agricultural dam at Diaradougou

In its ongoing quest for food self-sufficiency, Burkina Faso is taking a new step forward with the launch of the construction of a major agricultural dam at Diaradougou, in the Hauts-Bassins region. This ambitious project, costing 6 billion FCFA (around 10.4 million dollars), is part of the national strategy to develop water resources to boost agricultural production.

The future dam will have an estimated storage capacity of 10 million cubic metres of water. It will irrigate 1,260 hectares of farmland, guaranteeing year-round agricultural activity.

This project represents a considerable asset for local farmers, who have to contend with the vagaries of the climate and the irregularity of the seasons.

The Hauts-Bassins region, which already produces almost 15% of Burkina Faso’s cereals, will see its agricultural capacity considerably enhanced as a result.

Controlled irrigation will improve yields, diversify crops and increase the income of local producers, making a direct contribution to the country’s food security.

With strategic infrastructure of this kind, the authorities are confirming their desire to anchor agricultural development in a sustainable dynamic, based on food sovereignty, economic resilience and the fight against rural poverty.

Cédric KABORE