Burkina Faso is a leading producer of potatoes in West Africa, with Ouahigouya in the northern region contributing over 25% of the country's total production. In 2021, Burkina Faso produced approximately 29,621.5 tonnes of potatoes, though it ranks 119th globally in potato production.
A study of family farmers in the Yatenga region showed that 75.2% of farmers are proficient in potato farming techniques, and 89.7% are engaged in potato cultivation. However, the sector faces challenges such as limited access to quality seeds, inadequate storage facilities, and restricted market access. Despite these issues, domestic potato consumption is increasing, with per capita consumption estimated at 1.08 kg per year in 2021.
The potato was introduced to Burkina Faso by colonial missionaries and officials around the 1930s, and it is now predominantly grown in the Sourou plain, Karankasso Sambla in the Houet province, Titao in the Loroum province, and Ouahigouya in the Yatenga province.
Ouahigouya, located in the northern region of Burkina Faso, stands out as the leading potato-producing commune, contributing over 25% of the country’s total potato production, largely due to its favorable geographical location. The region falls under the Sudano-Sahelian climate zone, which is characterized by a long dry season and a short rainy season, conditions that influence potato farming practices in the area.
Agricultural Statistics for burkina-faso
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