Burkina Faso / Food self-sufficiency: genetic improvement of livestock intensifies with national deployment of insemination teams
President Ibrahim Traoré’s determination to make Burkina Faso self-sufficient in food production is taking shape through concrete and well-structured actions. One of the flagship initiatives underway is the national animal artificial insemination campaign, overseen by the Center for the Promotion of Poultry and the Multiplication of High-Performance Animals (CPAMAP). From June 25 to 28, 2025, a delegation from the Ministry of Animal Resources toured the Hauts-Bassins and Cascades regions to assess the implementation of this ambitious program, aimed at improving the productivity of Burkina Faso’s livestock.
In Kourinion, in Kénédougou Province, the effects of this policy are already visible. Insemination teams are hard at work, and farmers, encouraged by the drastic cost reduction, are participating in large numbers. Where insemination once cost up to 50,000 CFA francs, the state now offers it for just 5,000 francs. This direct support at the grassroots level helps improve animal genetics, which will boost meat and milk production and reduce dependency on imports.
The ministerial tour continued in Bobo-Dioulasso, Toussiana, and Banfora, where the same enthusiasm was seen among livestock farmers. The massive participation of beneficiaries reflects genuine support for the government’s food self-sufficiency goals. The Minister’s Technical Advisor, Dr. Jean Marie BATIEBO, confirmed that all regions of the country will benefit from the same program, ensuring fair national coverage for genetic improvement of livestock.
Alongside this insemination campaign, a vaccination drive against foot-and-mouth disease has been launched, further strengthening animal health. These combined efforts show that the policy of food sovereignty is well underway, with tangible results on the ground. Through this pragmatic and inclusive approach, Burkina Faso is steadily forging its path toward lasting food independence, in line with President Ibrahim Traoré’s vision.
