Can pineapples thrive in Africa’s Sahel? A Burkina Faso farmer says the answer is yes

In the arid Sahel region of Burkina Faso, Oumarou Compaoré is defying conventional wisdom by growing pineapples on a sandy and stony farm. The soil beneath his boots is not typically associated with fruit production, especially not the exotic pineapple. Yet, Compaoré, an agricultural pioneer, believes that these conditions are suitable for cultivating the fruit.

Known for his "Pioneer in pineapple production in the Sahel" initiative, Compaoré has transformed his 50-hectare farm into a pineapple-growing haven, despite the traditional perception that such fruit is exclusive to coastal regions and more expensive than locally grown mangoes. His journey began when people around him dismissed the possibility of growing pineapples in this harsh environment.

The Burkina Faso military leadership has taken notice of Compaoré's success, incorporating pineapple into their economic growth plan to boost food self-sufficiency for the country of 24 million people. Pineapples are now part of the government's formal development plan as they seek to increase food production and reduce reliance on imports.

Pineapples are already part of the government's food sovereignty initiative, which aims to increase local production and reduce dependence on imports. In 2024, the country inaugurated two factories for tomato paste, a local staple, and a section in a major supermarket in the capital, Ouagadougou, is dedicated to locally grown food.

While farming pineapples can be challenging, with a lengthy growing period of up to two years and the need for reliable access to water, farmers like Compaoré and Kola Jean, who trains others on pineapple farming, are optimistic about the future. With the right investment in irrigation and transport, and an understanding of how to adapt to the climate, pineapples can indeed thrive in Africa's Sahel.