In Burkina Faso, desertification and land degradation severely impact rural livelihoods, especially small-scale farmers. In response, agricultural cooperatives have emerged as vital actors in environmental resilience and sustainable agriculture. These cooperatives are grounded in democratic and solidarity-based principles, organizing producers to implement traditional and effective water and soil conservation (WSC) techniques such as zaï pits, half-moons, stone barriers, and reforestation. Their efforts help restore degraded land, retain soil moisture, and improve food security while combating climate change.
Structured around a General Assembly, an Executive Board, and various technical committees, cooperatives operate inclusively and transparently. The General Assembly ensures democratic governance, while the Executive Board manages daily operations. Specialized committees handle key areas: production planning, environmental restoration, training, gender inclusion, and marketing. These structures facilitate the coordination of community-led land restoration and agroecological practices.
Financing comes from internal contributions, agricultural sales, and external support from governments, NGOs, and microfinance institutions. Legal recognition requires registration under the OHADA Uniform Act, enabling cooperatives to access funding and participate in economic activities. While benefiting from tax exemptions and input subsidies, cooperatives are required to maintain financial transparency and reporting.
The cooperatives’ success relies on meticulous planning and inclusive participation, with a growing role for women and youth. Some also use digital tools for tracking and coordination. Ultimately, Burkina Faso’s agricultural cooperatives offer a powerful, grassroots model for fighting desertification. To maximize their impact, continued investment in training, governance, innovation, and finance is crucial.
