Burkina Faso turns spoiled fish into organic fertilizer in a bid for food safety and sustainability

As part of efforts to ensure food safety and promote sustainable agriculture, Burkina Faso has destroyed nearly 13 tons of spoiled fish in Yimdi, near Ouagadougou. The operation, overseen by Lieutenant-Veterinarian Aboubacar M. Nacro, is part of a nationwide food inspection campaign launched in December 2024.

“Our priority is to keep these hazardous products off the market and protect public health,” stated the Director-General of Veterinary Services, reaffirming the government’s commitment to ensuring food quality.

In a forward-thinking move, Minister of State for Agriculture, Fisheries, and Livestock, Commander Ismaël Sombié, ordered that the spoiled fish be converted into organic fertilizer rather than simply discarded.

This initiative aligns with Burkina Faso’s waste reduction and resource optimization strategy, helping to enrich the soil and support local farming.

Authorities have also urged the public to report any suspicious imports of contaminated food products.

This initiative highlights Burkina Faso’s proactive approach to food security and environmental sustainability, turning a public health risk into an opportunity for agricultural development.

Dodo FARROUKOU