Burkina Faso is turning food sovereignty into a concrete national reality. In 2025, cereal production reached 7.14 million tonnes, compared with 4.66 million tonnes before the launch of the Agropastoral and Fisheries Offensive. This represents a 53% increase and allows the country to cover 124% of its national cereal needs.
Agriculture Minister Commander Ismaël Sombié highlighted these results during the third edition of the National Days of Patriotic Commitment and Civic Participation.
At the same time, several key crops have reached historic levels. Paddy rice production exceeded one million tonnes, reaching 1,008,737 tonnes in 2025. Maize production also climbed to 2,686,531 tonnes. These performances reflect a deliberate government strategy focused on water control, modern equipment and agricultural mechanization. Between 2023 and 2025, authorities developed 11,774 hectares of irrigated land and 41,275 hectares of lowlands.
Beyond production, the government is also strengthening the connection between farmers and local markets. During the 2025–2026 campaign, more than 350,000 tonnes of cereals were purchased directly from local producers. These acquisitions helped raise national food sovereignty stocks to more than 380,000 tonnes. The approach gives farmers stronger market opportunities while reinforcing national reserves.
Meanwhile, the authorities are already preparing the next stage of the strategy. The 2026–2028 phase of the Agropastoral and Fisheries Offensive is expected to mobilize CFAF 839.99 billion. The plan includes 50,000 additional hectares of irrigated land and 100,000 hectares of lowlands.
Ultimately, Burkina Faso is seeking to strengthen every part of its agricultural chain, from production to local consumption. This strategy also aims to create sustainable jobs for young people and increase farmers’ incomes. Food production is therefore becoming more than an economic activity. It is emerging as a major pillar of national resilience, dignity and sovereignty.
