Although the first rains have already been recorded in several localities in the Kédougou region, the 2026 agricultural campaign is still struggling to truly start.

According to the Regional Director of Rural Development (DRDR), Ndiassé Sarr, the conditions necessary for the effective start of the rainy season have not yet been met, despite encouraging rainfall in some areas. "Throughout May, we recorded significant rainfall in the localities of Kédougou and Fongolimbi, with amounts exceeding 20 millimeters," explained the regional agricultural official. However, he clarified that this rainfall remains insufficient to officially declare the start of the rainy season.

According to agronomic criteria, the rainy season is considered to have begun when at least 20 millimeters of useful rainfall is recorded and is not followed by a prolonged dry period that could jeopardize planting. However, this condition has not yet been met across the entire region.

The producers are still in the preparation phase.

Faced with this situation, farmers in the region are continuing their preparatory work while awaiting more regular rainfall. "Sowing has not yet begun in the various communities. We are still at the stage of clearing the plots and are waiting for sufficient rain to proceed with plowing," said Ndiassé Sarr.

This delay contrasts with the situation observed at the same time last year, when many producers had already begun plowing and sowing certain crops.

Inputs gradually become available

Regarding the provision of production factors, the DRDR (Regional Directorate for Rural Development) is reassuring. Certified peanut seeds are already available in the region, with an estimated distribution rate of 68%, although distribution to producers remains limited.

Regarding fertilizers, only urea had been received until recently. However, the region has just received notification for the delivery of the NPK 15-15-15 fertilizer, which is eagerly awaited by producers. "For urea, we are at 98% of the implementation rate," the regional official stated.

Agricultural equipment almost entirely distributed

The situation is also satisfactory with regard to agricultural equipment. With the exception of a batch of small equipment whose acquisition has not yet been finalized, the majority of motorized equipment has already been made available.

Of the twelve tractors received under the agricultural mechanization support program, only two remain to be allocated: a 100 horsepower tractor and another of 75 horsepower, recently notified.

The INTERMAQ program, designed to strengthen agricultural mechanization in the region, is also on the verge of being fully implemented in Kédougou.

A call to follow the weather forecast

Faced with climate uncertainties, Ndiassé Sarr invites producers to refer to the seasonal forecasts established by the National Agency for Civil Aviation and Meteorology (ANACIM).

According to these forecasts, the onset of winter in the region could be "normal to late", a situation that requires increased vigilance from farmers in order to choose the most favorable periods for plowing and sowing.

"We ask producers to closely monitor seasonal forecasts in order to better plan fieldwork and sowing of different crops," he recommended.

While eyes remain fixed on the sky, producers in Kédougou are now hoping for more regular rains in the coming days to truly launch a good agricultural campaign.