SAA-Mali, in collaboration with the Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS), and with funding from the Nippon Foundation, has launched field trials on maize and pearl millet. Since June 2025, in the regions of Tiola and Dacoumani, they have been testing how enriched compost and calcined rock phosphate can improve soil fertility and boost crop yields.

The Sahel region faces significant challenges, including more frequent droughts, poor soil fertility, and wind erosion, which all contribute to desertification. This project directly addresses these issues by investigating the specific effects of calcined rock phosphate and phosphate-enriched compost on crop yields in Mali.

The Field Trial: Putting Science into Practice

In Tiola, four villages are participating in the maize trials, which test seven different fertilizer combinations. These include various sources of phosphorus, such as natural phosphate rocks from Burkina Faso and Tilemsi, sometimes blended with compost and essential nutrients like nitrogen and potassium. For an accurate comparison, a control plot with no phosphorus was also included.

In Dacoumani, similar trials are underway for pearl millet. The design of the experiments allows researchers to compare the effectiveness of each treatment and identify which combination of inputs works best for crop growth under local conditions.

Early Results Show Promise

Preliminary observations from the field are encouraging. Plots treated with phosphate-enriched compost show improved plant health, more robust growth, and better overall physiological development compared to other treatments. Local farmers have also noted the significant difference in the vigor of their crops.

Looking to the Future

These trials are expected to provide valuable insights into sustainable soil fertility management which can help farmers increase their yields, improve food security, and mitigate the effects of climate change. By promoting the use of natural and environmentally friendly soil amendments, SAA-Mali and JIRCAS aim to support resilient agricultural systems that can better withstand droughts and soil degradation while maintaining productivity.

The results of these trials will guide future recommendations for maize and pearl millet cultivation in Mali and may serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges.