Soilless Vegetable Farming: Burkina Faso (Extension)

Project Impacts

The project was delivered in partnership with Platforme Nationale du Commerce Equitable Burkina Faso (PNCE-B), Association Fraternité des Personnes Handicapées Physique de Bobo (AFPHPB) and Groupe d’Action des Femmes pour la Relance Economique du Houet (GAFREH). 

At the start of the project, only five women were familiar with the concept of soilless farming, the remaining 70 women had no experience in using these techniques. During the end evaluation, all women reported they have the skills in soilless vegetable production to continue producing beyond this project. 69 women reported they were very satisfied with the quality of their production and all think this enterprise will provide them with a sustainable source of income.

Mariam Traore, project participant, said:

“This project has unified us even more than ever and it is fulfilling to see us working together to grow organic vegetables to sell to the public. It has given us the opportunity to prove that despite our disability, we can also work to support ourselves and our families. 

"At the greenhouse we feel at home, we are like a big family. I am very satisfied with the quality of the vegetables produced. Our products looked even better than what is typically found on the market."

Vegetable production and sales 

• Volume of vegetables harvested: 5,171kg
• Volume of vegetables sold: 4,870kg
• Value of sales: £3,521
• Buyers: 62 (including 55 individuals, 5 wholesalers and 2 restaurants)

Project Expansion: November 2025 to February 2027 

In November 2025, we expanded this Soilless Farming project to support 100 women with disabilities. Key activities include the establishment of three additional greenhouses and supporting participants in their diversification into vegetable processing and preservation for a crucial source of additional income.

This expanded project continues to be delivered in partnership with Platforme Nationale du Commerce Equitable Burkina Faso (PNCE-B), Association Fraternité des Personnes Handicapées Physique de Bobo (AFPHPB) and Groupe d’Action des Femmes pour la Relance Economique du Houet (GAFREH). 

What is soilless farming?

Soilless farming is an innovative way of growing crops—mainly vegetables—without using soil. Instead, plants are grown in bags or troughs filled with a simple substrate, such as clay, that provides a supporting structure for the crops to flourish. The nutrients they require come from a natural liquid fertiliser, which is applied at key stages of growth.

By utilising greenhouses and drip irrigation, this method is climate-resilient and allows crops to be grown all year round. It also doesn’t require fertile land, making it ideal for urban areas where space for farming is limited. Importantly, soilless farming can produce up to three times more food than traditional farming methods.