Gomponsom: The SCALA GRO project organized a guided tour on Saturday, September 20, 2025, of the innovative "sister farms" pilot fields in the commune of Gomponsom, located in the province of Passore. This event brought together farmers and agricultural technicians to explore experimental fields featuring crops such as sorghum, corn, soybeans, and cowpeas.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the fields were cultivated using modernized za techniques combined with organic manure. Agricultural technician Angelo Ouedraogo detailed the advantages of using zaner as an agroecological tool for optimizing agricultural spaces. Ms. Ouedraogo explained that the za technique significantly enhances plant development by promoting water retention through strategically designed zai pockets. For corn, the maturation cycle is notably short at just 110 days, with each zai pot ideally containing up to 300 grams of compost.
Producer and technician Aboubacar Sanfo emphasized the economic benefits of mechanized za, which, when aided by project-provided inputs and compost, leads to high agricultural yields at a reduced cost. He advised producers on the optimal planting method, recommending 2 to 3 sorghum seeds per hole, with the holes maintaining specific distances and depths for maximum efficiency.
Sanfo Sadou, a project beneficiary and corn field cultivator, expressed satisfaction with the maturation stage of his crop, highlighting the new technique's cost-effectiveness and profitability. The provincial focal point of the SCALA GRO project, Abdoulaye Sanfo, further elaborated on the project's commitment to promoting agroforestry and supporting the transition to agroecology through various initiatives, including technical support, training, and seed donations. He projected that improved corn seeds could yield as much as 11 to 12 tonnes per hectare.
Sanfo underscored the importance of adopting modern agricultural techniques to keep pace with evolving agricultural practices and enhance production. He called on local producers to embrace these innovative methods, which promise substantial yield improvements.
The event concluded with expressions of gratitude from the focal point and project manager to partners and farmers for their support and participation. They urged continued collaboration to align with the state's goals concerning food self-sufficiency, resilience, and security in the province.