Niger's Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, Elhadj Mahaman Ousmane, commenced a field visit in the Maradi region on Saturday, August 8, 2026, according to reports from Maradi on August 8 (ANP). The minister's tour included the commune of Aguié, where he assessed the progress of the current agricultural campaign. During his observations, Elhadj Mahaman Ousmane noted the positive development of crops, specifically noting good flowering and ear formation. He indicated that these observations pointed to a fertile rainy season within the region, suggesting favorable conditions for agricultural yields.
Assessing the Agricultural Campaign
The Department of Aguié comprises 163 agricultural villages, where primary crops include mil, sorghum, cowpea, peanut, tiger nut, sesame, sorrel, and okra. This diverse range of crops shows the agricultural importance of the region. Zaneidou Goudaou, the Director of Regional Agriculture, provided full explanations to Minister Elhadj Mahaman Ousmane regarding the ongoing agricultural activities and local conditions. Technical services and local populations affirmed that the current agricultural campaign is progressing favorably, with farmers diligently working their fields. If the prevailing dynamic persists, the Aguié department is projected to achieve exceptional production levels this year, a promising outlook for food security and local economies. Despite the generally positive outlook, specific instructions were issued for areas such as Dakoro and Bermo. These directives addressed concerns related to delayed rainfall and the installation of the pastoral campaign in those particular localities, ensuring that necessary interventions are made where conditions are less ideal.
Input Availability and Distribution
The Minister and his delegation visited the CAIMA (Central Supply of Agricultural Inputs and Materials) store in the Maradi region to assess the provision of agricultural inputs. The store has made two types of inputs available: agricultural inputs, including fertilizers and seeds, and pastoral inputs, such as livestock feed. This dual approach aims to support both crop cultivation and animal husbandry, vital components of the region's economy. Nationally, the PRSAP project facilitated the availability of 15,000 tons of fertilizer, demonstrating a significant commitment to agricultural support at a broader level.
In the Maradi region, CAIMA made 2,460 tons of fertilizer available in June. This distribution was directed to six communes: Chadakori and Saé Saboua in Guidan-Roumdji, and Aguié, Gangara, and Gazaoua across the Aguié and Gazaoua departments, as well as Madarounfa and Dakoro. An additional 2,460 tons of fertilizer have been made available in the Maradi region since June, specifically for the communes of Chadakori, Saé Saboua, Aguié, Gangara, and Gazaoua. Out of this, 1,215 tons of fertilizer have already been distributed to these designated communes, indicating active efforts to get resources to farmers. A reception of 900 tons of livestock feed has been announced for the region, indicating ongoing efforts to support both crop and animal farming and ensure the well-being of livestock.
Market Observations and Future Outlook
The state has provided what it could regarding available agricultural inputs, according to observations made during the tour, signaling government commitment to supporting the agricultural sector. A good availability of cereals and animals at affordable and balanced prices was noted in the markets, which is beneficial for consumers. Slightly less than 300 tons of livestock feed are still needed beyond what is currently available, noting a specific area for further attention. Additionally, stocks of fertilizer are present on local markets, ensuring supply for farmers beyond the initial distributions. The Minister and Governor visited various markets during their return journey to assess these conditions firsthand, engaging directly with traders and local populations to understand the market dynamics and the impact of agricultural policies.