TITLE:
Agricultural Valorization of Fecal Sludge in the Municipality of Sèmè-Podji, Southeastern Benin
AUTHORS:
Kachichè Kafiriola Florent Doumatey, Toundé Roméo Gislain Kadjegbin, Hadiza Kiari Fougou
KEYWORDS:
Sèmè-Podji Municipality, Fecal Sludge, Agricultural Valorization, Compost
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Agricultural Chemistry and Environment,
Vol.15 No.2,
May
28,
2026
ABSTRACT: The reuse of fecal sludge in the Municipality of Sèmè-Podji is feasible through compost production that no longer poses a public health risk. The methodological approach combines literature review, field data collection from 302 respondents, and data processing. At Sèmè-Podji, 29% of the surveyed population still use traditional emptying methods, while 71% rely on professional desludging services. The presence of a Fecal Sludge Treatment Plant (FSTP) is crucial for sustainable sludge management. At the plant, raw sludge is discharged into a reception pit where it remains for 15 to 21 days to allow separation of the liquid fraction and obtain dehydrated solids. These solids are stored under controlled conditions. Pre-treatment and co-composting are the main steps in agricultural valorization. Additionally, 73% of farmers apply compost through spreading, while 27% practice burial. These methods improve soil fertility using compost derived from fecal sludge. Due to its richness in nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) and organic matter, treated sludge is used as an agricultural amendment, provided sanitary standards are respected.