The Value of Research on Indigenous Knowledge: Preliminary Evidence from the Case ofZaïin Burkina Faso

Indigenous knowledge (IK) usually refers to the informal practices which have evolved within a community in response to specific problems or constraints. In the context of developing-country agriculture, research on IK may yield high social benefits due to the relatively isolated areas where certain IK practices have evolved and are practiced. Also, since IK practices have been developed by fellow farmers, they tend to inspire confidence in potential new adopters. If research can identify promising IK practices which as a result are extended over much wider geographical areas, then the impact may be increased at minimum extension cost. In this study, research on the potential impact of one such practice (Zaï in Burkina Faso) is evaluated. This technique improves the viability of sorghum and millet plantings by providing a hole, which serves as a small reservoir for the plants, and organic matter. The combination allows plantings to vigorously establish themselves and avoid the consequences of early mini-droughts. Yield increases in natural, resource-poor areas are dramatic. The high ex ante returns to research found in this study are imputed to be equal to the social value of extending Zaï to farmers over wider but similar geographical areas.