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Thematic Area: Soil Health

  • Liquid biofertilizer from hygienized human urine for fonio production

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    This document presents a low-cost biofertilizer made from hygienized human urine enriched with organic materials such as poultry manure, ash, neem, and moringa leaves. Developed in Mali, it addresses low soil fertility in fonio production systems, particularly for women farmers who lack access to expensive mineral fertilizers. The innovation improves yields significantly (up to 1533…

  • Watermelon cultivation as an innovation for agricultural diversification in Toéghin

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    This document presents the introduction of watermelon cultivation (Citrullus lanatus) in Toéghin, Burkina Faso, as a strategy to diversify agricultural production and improve resilience to climate change. After three years of experimentation, farmers achieved high yields (31,600 kg/ha) and strong economic returns while improving nutrition and using agroecological inputs like compost and biopesticides. Organisation: Diobass Ecologie…

  • Comparison of Legume Species in Sorghum Rotations under Sudano-Sahelian Conditions

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    This study analyzes the short-term effects of 14 legume species used in rotation with sorghum in Burkina Faso. Despite differences in biomass production and nitrogen fixation, no significant variation in sorghum yield was observed depending on the preceding legume species. The findings suggest that nitrogen availability is not the main driver of yield improvement, likely…

  • Comparison of cropping systems: rotation, intercropping, and monoculture of sorghum and cowpea

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    This document presents a six-year field experiment conducted in Burkina Faso comparing monoculture, crop rotation, and two types of intercropping systems (alternate rows and traditional planting pits) for sorghum and cowpea. Results show that while intercropping initially outperforms monoculture, its advantage declines over time. Crop rotation proves to be the most sustainable system, maintaining yields…

  • Cereal-Legume Rotation (Sorghum–Cowpea)

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    This document explains the benefits of rotating sorghum and cowpea in Sudano-Sahelian systems as an alternative to fallow. It highlights improved yields, better soil fertility, and reduced pest and striga pressure compared to monoculture. It also discusses farmer perceptions, constraints such as land access, and recommendations for implementation. Organisation: LegAE Project / Agricultural Research in Burkina…

  • Cascade Training by Farmer Trainers in Burkina Faso

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    An endogenous agroecological scaling approach where selected farmers are trained by researchers and then disseminate knowledge to peers through demonstrations and farmer field schools. It addresses soil degradation, limited agricultural advisory access, and the need to reach many households efficiently, showing strong yield improvements through combined practices like Zaï, compost, and improved seeds. Organisation: INERA; AMSP…

  • OGA Biofertilizer from Sanitized Human Urine

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    This document presents an agroecological innovation from Niger where sanitized human urine (OGA) is used as a low-cost natural fertilizer. It improves millet yields by up to 30%, addresses soil fertility decline, reduces dependence on chemical fertilizers, and promotes waste valorization. The practice is simple, widely adopted, and particularly empowering for women. Organisation: Fuma Gaskiya Author: Ali…

  • FUMA-FRN: Farmer Research Network

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    An agroecological research approach based on co-learning, co-creation, and knowledge sharing, enabling farmers to actively shape research agendas, collaborate with researchers, and scale innovations through networks. It strengthens participation, improves contextualized research, and enhances knowledge exchange while bridging gaps between farmers and scientific communities. Organisation: FUMA Gaskiya Author: Ali Maman Aminou et al. Maturity description: Well established and…

  • FUMA-FRN Large-N Participatory Research Approach

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    A large-scale participatory research approach designed to reach many farmers across diverse contexts using localized support systems. It progressively expands from small pilot groups to large-scale implementation, combining agroecological intensification options, farmer-led experimentation, and digital data collection. The approach strengthens farmer engagement, adapts to local conditions, and integrates research with extension services. Organisation: Fuma Gaskiya Author: Ali…

  • Bokashi P+ Technical Sheet

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    This document presents Bokashi P+, an improved organic fertilizer enriched with phosphate and nitrogen, produced from urban organic waste and effective microorganisms. It addresses the limitations of traditional compost and Bokashi by offering faster production, higher nutrient content, and bioprotective effects. The innovation improves yields, supports organic certification, and enhances farmers’ income while reducing reliance…