Yacouba Sawadogo

Yacouba Sawadogo, born in 1946, was a remarkable Burkinabé farmer and agronomist renowned for his innovative approach to combating desertification and drought. Utilizing a traditional farming technique known as zaï, he successfully restored soils that had been severely damaged, showcasing the power of agroforestry and farmer-managed natural regeneration.

His life and work were brought to the screen in the 2010 documentary feature film, The Man Who Stopped the Desert, which first premiered in the UK. This film highlights his dedication to sustainable farming practices and his impact on the environment.

A native speaker of Mossi, Sawadogo's contributions to agriculture did not go unrecognized. In 2018, he was honored with the Right Livelihood Award, and in 2020, he received the prestigious Champions of the Earth award, celebrating his efforts in environmental conservation.

Sadly, Yacouba Sawadogo passed away on December 3, 2023, at the age of seventy-seven, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and innovation in the face of climate challenges.