Mapping Agroecology Networks in Burkina Faso: Governance Challenges and Pathways for Transition

Yasmina Tega, Hycenth Tim Ndah, Eveline Sawadogo/Compaoré, Jean-Marie Dipama and Johannes Schuler ()
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Yasmina Tega: Department of Geography, Joseph KI-ZERBO University, Ouagadougou 03 BP 7021, Burkina Faso
Hycenth Tim Ndah: Leibniz Centre for Agricultural Landscape Research (ZALF), 15374 Müncheberg, Germany
Eveline Sawadogo/Compaoré: Institute of Environment and Agronomic Research (INERA), Ouagadougou 04 BP 8645, Burkina Faso
Jean-Marie Dipama: Department of Geography, Joseph KI-ZERBO University, Ouagadougou 03 BP 7021, Burkina Faso
Johannes Schuler: Leibniz Centre for Agricultural Landscape Research (ZALF), 15374 Müncheberg, Germany

Land, 2025, vol. 14, issue 12, 1-21

Abstract: Agroecology is recognized as a resilient agricultural system amid the ecological crisis, but also as a social movement working towards better livelihoods for farmers. In Burkina Faso, the dynamics among actors promoting agroecology are not well understood. Effective governance of the agroecological transition necessitates a deeper comprehension of the interactions and networks involved. This study aims to identify, characterize, and analyze local actors and their networks to enhance governance for agroecological transition, focusing on two north and south-west regions of Burkina Faso to highlight regional differences. Using the Agricultural Knowledge and Information Systems (AKIS) as a conceptual framework, we conducted a literature review and facilitated focus group discussions during a workshop with stakeholders. Key participants include farmers, service providers, researchers, policymakers, NGOs, and organizations, which engage in political and technical interactions. The results show that the governance landscape is fragmented with public policies at both strategic and operational levels failing to effectively engage mainstream actors or translate into actionable support for agroecological practices. To transition agroecology from a fragmented niche to a widely adopted system, there is a critical need for consistent support for farmers, including knowledge sharing, networking opportunities, and marketing strategies.

Keywords: Agricultural Knowledge and Information Systems; stakeholders; multi-level interactions; public policies (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q15 Q2 Q24 Q28 Q5 R14 R52 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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