FARMERS’ PRACTICES AND WILLINGNESS TO ADOPT SUPPLEMENTAL IRRIGATION IN BURKINA FASO

Abstract

This study analyzes farmers' practices and willingness to adopt supplemental irrigation on rainfed crops in the Sahelian and Sudano-Sahelian areas of Burkina Faso. A survey of 629 farmers revealed a diversity of farming practices within and between two agro-climatic zones. Over 65% of farmers believe that supplemental irrigation is a good way to mitigate the adverse effects of dry spells on crop yields. Determining factors of farmers’ willingness to adopt supplemental irrigation were identified using a logistic model. Lack of information is the major obstacle to promoting this innovation. Farmers’ training and information dissemination are the best ways to increase the acceptance of this promising technology.

Keywords

• Innovation
• dry spell
• rainfed crop
• farmers
• willingness to adopt