Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique et Technologique (CNRST), Institut de l’Environnement et de Recherches Agricoles (INERA), Laboratoire Ressources Naturelles et Innovations Agricoles (LaReNIA), Burkina Faso
Harmonious management of pastoral areas is a challenge for the sustainability of pastoral resources. This study aims to analyze management methods’ impact on the sustainability of rangelands in pastoral areas in Burkina Faso. For this purpose, diachronic and prospective study of land use are an effective approach for a long run area assessment through mapping. The mapping work carried out in Gadeghin and Sidéradougou pastoral zones has enabled an assessment of land use in these areas. By observing the dynamics of land use in the pastoral zones from 1990 to 2020, we note a considerable reduction in rangelands made up of natural formations in favor to crop production. This development has taken place in strong growth of human and animal populations context. In addition, we noted that the management methods identified in these areas have had a negative impact on the dynamics of pastoral areas. In fact, the projection of the dynamics of pastoral areas up to 2050 predicts the extinction of certain vegetation units in these areas if the degradation factors increase in the same direction and with the same intensity. The government and practitioners should take actions to halt or reverse the deterioration of pastoral areas in order to ensure sustainable pastoralism in Burkina Faso.