In the Kuilsé region, INADES-Formation Burkina’s initiatives continue to have a positive impact on rural communities. In Sera and Kanretenga, two localities in the commune of Boussouma, in the province of Sandbondtenga, transformation is gradually taking place. Where once there was a degree of uncertainty, today more confident and hopeful communities are flourishing.
Where once there was undeveloped, degraded land, there is now a lush, green market garden. In the village of sera, in the commune of Boussouma, the metamorphosis is obvious. On a hectare of fully fenced land, equipped with a borehole and drip irrigation system, crop beds line up harmoniously, a testament to the hard work of those involved. In just one year, the combined efforts of INADES-Formation Burkina and the women growers, with the support of our partners, have transformed this site into a thriving agro-ecological production area. The carefully landscaped plots are home to a variety of crops: tomatoes, onions, chillies, eggplants, maize, etc.
To share this experience, a guided tour was organized at the beginning of the 2025 semester, bringing together farmers from Boussouma, Korsimoro and Ziga. The agroecological practices adopted on the site were presented, and discussions took place on the principles of draught animal maintenance. ” I’ve gained new knowledge from what I’ve seen at Sera. I’m going to share them with my community, and we’re going to build on this experience. “said Alimata ZABRE, producer of Ziga.
In addition to agricultural production, Sera also sets an example in terms of promoting the well-being of draught horses. The awareness-raising campaigns carried out have profoundly changed people’s attitudes: equids, indispensable for field and domestic work, are now better fed, watered and cared for. ” We understand that our donkeys are our working partners. We must feed them, look after them and allow them to rest. “says Safi SAWADOGO, a producer at the Sera market garden site.
Kanretengaa market garden that stands the test of time
In the same commune as Sera is the village of Kanretenga. In this village, since 2022, an agroecological market garden has also been developed with the support of INADES-Formation Burkina. Here too, a remarkable transformation has taken place. As in Sera, with its wire fencing and solar-powered borehole, the Kanretenga site boasts well-maintained beds and a diversity of crops. ” This perimeter is our pride and joy. Before the project, we suffered enormously from the lack of water. It was really difficult. “says Adama ZABRE. Today, harvests are regular and the community takes full advantage of this production space. Composting, mulching and tending the draught animals have become reflexes, guaranteeing sustainable agriculture. Thanks to INADES-Formation Burkina, communities from Sera to Karetenga now look to the future with greater serenity and hope. The same applies to other villages in the Sandbondtenga province, such as Soundogo, Guéré, Ganssé and Napamboumbou.
Today, Sera and Kanretenga, like the 5 other villages mentioned, symbolize the success of an approach based on sustainability and solidarity. In addition to income from the sale of market garden produce, which enables women to send their children to school and strengthen their economic autonomy, INADES-Formation Burkina’s support has improved family nutrition.
It should be noted that these initiatives are part of the project to strengthen the resilience of vulnerable communities in the Sandbontenga Province. This project is being implemented with the technical and financial support of Brooke Afrique de l’Ouest and Guernsey Overseas Aid. Through these initiatives, INADES-Formation Burkina confirms its commitment to working alongside communities to promote sustainable, environmentally-friendly agriculture and the well-being of draught horses.
Julio YAMEOGO and Patrice DA
