Spatio-Temporal Dynamics of Dry Matter Productivity (DMP) from Satellite Imagery in the Mouhoun Province, Burkina Faso: Communal-Level Analysis for the Years 2001, 2011, and 2021 in a Context of Climate Change and Increasing Anthropogenic Pressure

In the face of climate change and increasing human pressure, monitoring ecosystem productivity is essential for the sustainable management of natural resources. The Mouhoun Province, located in western Burkina Faso, is undergoing significant ecological transformations that affect vegetation production. This study aims to analyze the spatio-temporal dynamics of dry matter productivity (DMP) at the communal level for the years 2001, 2011, and 2021. The methodology is based on the use of satellite images from the Copernicus/NDVI database, reprocessed to estimate DMP in kg DM/ha. The approach involved aggregating values by commune from time series data, extracting trends, and mapping spatio-temporal changes using a Geographic Information System (GIS). Additionally, field observations were conducted. This paper seeks to identify communes affected by a decrease or increase in DMP and to analyze the underlying explanatory factors. The results reveal significant heterogeneity in vegetation productivity across the Mouhoun Province. Some communes, such as Safané and Dédougou, show a downward trend in DMP between 2001 and 2021, while Kona shows a slight improvement. These variations are closely linked to the expansion of agricultural frontiers, land pressure, and climatic variability. The study highlights the relevance of satellite imagery as a decision-support tool and opens avenues for integrating DMP into local climate change adaptation policies.