Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso is a landlocked country, characterized by a semi-arid climate and limited water resources, with the Volta River being its primary water source. The country faces significant environmental challenges, including water scarcity, desertification, and soil erosion, which are exacerbated by climate change and population pressures. Efforts to improve water management, enhance agricultural resilience, and combat land degradation are crucial for sustaining livelihoods and protecting ecosystems in this vulnerable region.

IWMI in Burkina Faso

IWMI’s work in Burkina Faso focuses on enhancing agricultural sustainability and water security by integrating innovative, nature-positive solutions into local food systems. The organization supports small-scale farmers through agroecological approaches, improving soil fertility and water management practices to build resilience against climate change. These efforts are designed to promote equitable and sustainable agricultural systems that contribute positively to both livelihoods and the environment.

In addition, IWMI is strengthening water management capacity in Burkina Faso by developing advanced digital tools for water accounting and decision-making. These tools, including an open-access dashboard, aim to improve the availability and use of water data for better management at the basin level. By engaging local stakeholders and building institutional capacity, IWMI is fostering informed policy dialogue and enabling more efficient water use across sectors.

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Olufunke Cofie

Africa Director for Research Impact

Contact the media team.

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Latest Burkina Faso publications

Journal Article

Identifying potential for rice expansion in Burkina Faso: integrating EO and climate data for suitability mapping

Frontiers Media | September 29th, 2025

Meier, J.; Hirner, A.; Akpoti, Komlavi; Hackman, K.; Gessner, U.

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Extension Material

Digital solutions for Africa’s water management

International Water Management Institute | August 22nd, 2025

Velpuri, Naga Manohar; Seid, Abdulkarim; Leh, Mansoor; Mekonnen, Kirubel; Haile, Alemseged Tamiru; Garcia Andarcia, Mariangel; Owusu, Afua; Akpoti, Komlavi; Storr, Samuel; Greatrix, Emma; Wamba, Elizabeth

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Abstract

Journal Article

Bridging scales and borders on water availability and use in the transboundary Volta River Basin: a water accounting approach

Elsevier | June, 2025

Owusu, Afua; Akpoti, Komlavi; Leh, Mansoor; Perera, Tharindu; Madushanka, Lahiru; Mekonnen, Kirubel; Tinonetsana, Primrose; Tayebi, N.; Escalera-Rodriguez, A. C.; Fofana, R.; Velpuri, Naga Manohar

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Abstract