In response to the ongoing global economic challenges exacerbated by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Burkina Faso has officially launched the Emergency Project for Increasing Agricultural Production in Burkina Faso (PURPA-BF), backed by the African Development Bank (AfDB). This significant move aims to secure food production and ensure stability in the region.
Key Takeaways
- The PURPA-BF, launched on February 6, 2024, in Ouagadougou, is designed to counteract the adverse effects of global disruptions on food security in Burkina Faso, with a significant focus on empowering local farmers through the supply of climate-adapted seeds and fertilizers.
- The African Development Bank Group has allocated €38.4 million, covering nearly the entire cost of the project, which is expected to benefit 330,000 farmers by enhancing the production of crucial crops such as maize, rice, soya, cowpea, sorghum, and wheat.
- The initiative not only targets an increase in crop production but also supports over half of the beneficiaries who are women, internally displaced persons, and youth, emphasizing the project’s inclusivity and social impact.
- With the anticipated boost in national rice and maize production, the project aligns with Burkina Faso’s broader agricultural strategy and the AfDB’s ‘Feed Africa’ strategy, underpinning the commitment to sustainable development and food self-sufficiency.
Launch and Support
The project’s launch was led by Major Ismaël Sombié, Burkina Faso’s Minister for Agriculture, alongside key government officials, the African Development Bank’s Country Manager for Burkina Faso, and representatives from the agricultural sector. The event underscored the collaborative effort between the Burkina Faso government and the AfDB, highlighting a shared vision for agricultural development and food security.
Project Funding and Objectives
With a substantial investment from the AfDB, the PURPA-BF is set to supply essential agricultural inputs to farmers, aiming to significantly increase the production of key crops. This initiative is a testament to the AfDB’s ongoing support for Burkina Faso, particularly in enhancing the agriculture and environment sector, which is crucial for the country’s economic stability and growth.
Strategic Alignment and Impact
The project is strategically aligned with national and international development goals, including Burkina Faso’s ‘2023-25 Agropastoral and Fisheries Offensive’ program and the AfDB’s ‘Feed Africa’ strategy. By focusing on agricultural value chains and addressing the impacts of climate change, the initiative promises to improve living conditions and bolster food security for Burkina Faso’s population.
The launch of the PURPA-BF marks a significant step forward in Burkina Faso’s efforts to combat food insecurity and economic challenges. Supported by the African Development Bank, this project embodies a proactive and collaborative approach to ensuring the well-being and resilience of Burkina Faso’s people, particularly in the face of global uncertainties.
