Ouagadougou: The 2nd edition of the International Forum on Leadership and Innovation in Agriculture (FILIA) began in Ouagadougou at SIAO, focusing on 'Food sovereignty and climate resilience in Africa: what role for agricultural finance?' The forum aims to promote and encourage innovation in the agricultural sector.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the chairman of the FILIA 2026 organizing committee, Idrissa Komtitamde, noted that while the first edition in 2025 laid the groundwork, this second edition emphasizes action. He stated that the chosen theme aims to initiate reflection on agricultural finance as a crucial lever for transforming the economy of Burkina Faso and Africa.

Mr. Komtitamde highlighted that this theme aligns with the government's objective, under President Captain Ibrahim Traore, to modernize farms, boost productive investment, structure sectors, and enhance financial inclusion.

Franck Napon, Director of Health, Safety, and Development at IAMGOLD Essakane SA, representing this edition's sponsor, emphasized that agriculture is not merely an economic sector but the foundation of sovereignty, a development engine, and the hope for many young Africans. He reiterated his company's commitment to supporting initiatives that advance agriculture and Burkina Faso.

FILIA 2026, which commenced on May 8, will continue until May 10, 2026, at SIAO. The program includes panels, B to B meetings, and an exhibition space showcasing Burkinabe expertise. Additionally, an international jury for the African Leadership and Innovation in Agriculture Award will evaluate and celebrate countries, entrepreneurs, and start-ups that innovate in the sector.

After the opening ceremony, attendees visited exhibition stands featuring agricultural products and innovations. Among the highlighted innovations was Ferma Tinga, a technology utilizing multispectral imaging to detect and correct crop anomalies. Isma«l Kabore, the manager, explained that this system aids agricultural engineers in identifying areas needing fertilizers or special attention, reducing analysis time and costs significantly. He stressed that the technology is designed and managed in Burkina Faso, with data hosted locally, underscoring its indigenous development.