Sahel Region Produces Over 6,000 Tonnes Crops in 2023-2024 Dry Season Despite Security Challenges

Despite ongoing security challenges, the Sahel region produced 6,640.5 tonnes of crops across 411 hectares in the 2023-2024 dry agricultural season. This is according to the report of the Sahel Regional Directorate for Agriculture, Animal Resources, and Fisheries (DRARAH).

During a consultation held on November 8, 2024, in Dori, Burkina Faso, DRARAH officials, alongside producer organisations and partners, reviewed the outcomes of the recent season and prepared an operational plan for 2024-2025.

According to Abdoul Karim Zongo, Secretary General of the Sahel region, approximately 411 hectares were dedicated to vegetables and other market garden crops on 90 sites, yielding an estimated 6,640.5 tonnes.

Zongo credited the success of these activities to the coordinated efforts of DRARAH agents and their technical and financial partners. He acknowledged the key role played by these stakeholders in providing critical support through each phase of production.

Despite these accomplishments, DRARAH reported a production decrease of 34.88 per cent from the previous season’s 8,957.43 tonnes. Market garden crops dominated the output, including 2,333.9 tonnes of onions, 1,358.84 tonnes of cabbage, and 932.54 tonnes of tomatoes.

The decrease resulted from rising insecurity, which forced many farmers in the region to abandon their lands, resulting in reduced agricultural activities and lower crop yields. Also, extreme weather conditions contributed to the reduced agricultural output.

Despite these challenges, the Sahel’s agricultural sector remains resilient, with continued efforts to sustain food production and support local economies.

Looking ahead, DRARAH said it has evaluated the seed and fertiliser needs for the upcoming 2024-2025 dry season to address the challenges identified and enhance productivity.

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