The National Cooperative of Forage Economy Actors of Côte d'Ivoire (CNF-CI) brought together agro-pastoral actors from Odienné on Saturday, June 6, 2026. The objective? To introduce the cultivation of maralfalfa, a plant innovation capable of revolutionizing livestock feed and pacifying relations in rural areas.

Held at the city's Islamic center, this training session aimed to equip local producers with modern tools to sustainably boost their productivity while ensuring the food supply for their animals.

Maralfalfa: A super-forage with multiple advantages

Maralfalfa is emerging as an essential alternative in the face of current climate and pastoral challenges. Its characteristics make it a major economic driver:

1. Exceptional yield: Between 300 and 500 tonnes of green matter per hectare per year.
2. Remarkable longevity: A production cycle that extends over more than ten years.
3. Factor of social peace: By guaranteeing food locally, it promotes the sedentarization of herds.

"This plant helps to settle herds, thus contributing to reducing recurring conflicts between farmers and herders," stressed Samuel Kouamé, president of the CNF-CI.

Techniques, profitability and institutional support

Participants received comprehensive training, covering everything from planting and maintenance techniques to the commercial development of this crop. In a global context focused on food security, maralfalfa fits perfectly into the transition towards more resilient agricultural systems.

The initiative received strong support from local authorities. Gabriel Don, Deputy Prefect of Odienné, warmly welcomed the approach:

"Maralfalfa represents a concrete opportunity to modernize the agro-pastoral practices of our region. I strongly encourage everyone to adopt this innovation to secure and sustain their activities."

By encouraging the integration of forage crops, the CNF-CI hopes not only to optimize the management of agricultural resources in the Odienné region, but also to sustainably strengthen social cohesion between the different rural communities.