Gaoua: The National Office of Major Projects of Burkina Faso (BN-GPB) is spearheading a significant agricultural monitoring mission from July 13 to 19, 2025. This initiative focuses on agricultural production developments across six barracks and detention centers in the nation. As part of this mission, the 4-hectare area developed by the 22nd Commando Infantry Regiment (RIC) of Gaoua was visited on July 14, 2025.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the 22nd RIC of Gaoua received funding amounting to 40,000,000 CFA francs to cultivate a 4-hectare plot within the barracks. This effort aligns with the Presidential Initiative for Agricultural Production and Food Self-Sufficiency (IP-P3A), which aims to bolster food security for soldiers and young individuals in correctional facilities.
Battalion Commander Ki©nou Farab© Gaston, leading the 22nd RIC, highlighted that the farming activities commenced in May and include a variety of crops such as tomatoes, cabbage, eggplant, zucchini, cucumbers, and corn. The produce is primarily used to supplement the daily rations of young soldiers, with any excess sold in local markets due to limited storage capacity. Currently, tomatoes, eggplants, and zucchinis are being harvested.
Commander Ki©nou noted that both soldiers and residents of detention facilities are engaged in cultivating the land. This initiative prepares soldiers for civilian life by equipping them with agricultural skills. He expressed hope for the establishment of a fund to further support the project.
The area benefits from a comprehensive water supply system, including a 5m3/h borehole with a submersible pump and solar panels, a 50m3 water basin for irrigation, a 5m3 water tower, and a 25m3/h booster pump. An irrigation system utilizing laser spray technology ensures efficient water distribution.
This monitoring mission is a collaborative effort with the Central Directorate of Military Engineering (DCGM) and the General Directorate of Prison Administration (DGAP), targeting barracks in Gaoua, Banfora, and Bobo-Dioulasso, as well as agricultural and correctional facilities in Baporo, Di©bougou, and D©dougou.