Wastewater use in urban horticulture in Burkina Faso

Wastewater and agriculture: The objective of this research is to analyze the management of wastewater and to propose options for improving its use in horticultural production systems in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. Surveys and physico-chemical analyses of soils and wastewater were conducted at eight sites. The study shows that most of the farmers are men and young people (about 75%) who use wastewater for their activities. These farmers are mostly illiterate and are not aware of the risks associated with the use of wastewater. All of them only see the immediate effects on horticultural production and the immediate impacts on their income. Physico-chemical analyses show that the use of these waters increases the organic matter and phosphorus content from 209.9 to 741.7 mg/ kg, potassium from 651.7 to 1228 mg/ kg and heavy metals in the soil, which can have consequences for both the environment and health. Optional choices in urban areas require further research and awareness raising among operators and municipal authorities.