The impact of fungal diseases on maize productivity remains a significant concern in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), as it is throughout the world. In Burkina Faso, maize production is subject to attacks by numerous species of fungus, which result in not only yield losses but also a reduction in production quality. These losses are attributable to a number of factors, including sowing failure, delayed plant growth and the production of mycotoxins that have the potential to cause adverse effects on human and animal health. In order to evaluate the extent of contamination in seeds produced in Burkina Faso, this study examined the mycoflora in 68 maize seed samples collected from the region's primary maize-cultivating areas. The principal objective of the study was to ascertain the prevalence of the principal fungal diseases affecting maize grain in Burkina Faso. The ISTA method and the moistened blotting paper method of Mathur and Kongsdal were employed, respectively, to prepare the samples for analysis and to assess the mycoflora following incubation in a chamber at 24°C ± 2°C under 12 hours of near ultra-violet (UV) light alternating with darkness (12 hours). The assessment yielded the identification of 22 fungal species, comprising 19 pathogenic fungi and three saprophytic fungi. The fungi identified as the most prevalent on the seeds analysed were Fusarium verticillioides, Penicilium sp., Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus. The infection rates observed varied considerably between varieties and also according to the region of origin of the samples. The findings of this study will provide a foundation for the mapping of fungal diseases affecting maize in Burkina Faso. Through national research programs, these data will inform the development of more effective and appropriate strategies for combating common fungal diseases of maize.

Keywords: Phytosanitary, maize seed, Burkina Faso