Impacts of organic and inorganic input usage on agricultural productivity in Burkina Faso in a security crisis

---

Résumé

Sub-Saharan Africa faces food insecurity, worsened by rapid population growth outpacing agricultural output. Inorganic fertilisers offer potential solutions, but their current low usage is insufficient to meet food demands. This study explores the impact of inorganic fertiliser use on agricultural productivity in Burkina Faso, using data from the World Bank's living standards measurement study. By comparing plots that used inorganic inputs with those that used only organic ones, we found that the use of inorganic inputs positively affects productivity, particularly in high-yield plots. Crop-specific analysis showed significant impacts on maize, cowpea, sesame, and paddy rice. However, their effectiveness was lower in conflict-affected areas, with the Mouhoun region being an exception. These results highlight the need for tailored fertiliser strategies based on crop type and regional conditions.

Mots-clés

agricultural productivity, inorganic inputs, conflicts, food security, Burkina Faso