Rapid population growth and climatic change threaten the sustainability of natural resources in the sub-Sahelian region of West Africa. Environmental changes and degradations can be mitigated by the adaptation of improved farming practices. In Ziga, located in Yatenga region, a research program was implemented between 1980 and 1987. The aim of this research was to describe and to analyze manure practice management and to present their determinants, for deducing their effects on farming system sustainability. In 2005, a survey in the same village was carried out to assess the evolution of farming practices. According to the inquiry made, two practices, called "zaï" and "djengo," were largely used in cereal crop production. The characteristics of "zaï" and "djengo" practices were assessed and their effects on grain crop yields measured. The "zaï" characteristics depend on the farm manure availability. Zaï practice is a complex soil restoration system using manure localization and runoff capture in micro-watersheds on degraded soils to improve their productivity. In addition, another practice called the "djengo" that has not been described in previous works was noticed in Ziga. Like the "zaï," "djengo" is a technique of soil and water conservation characterized by localized supply of organic matter. In the case of "djengo," the micro-basin is dug after the first rain. The "djengo" is less expensive in time. These two practices revealed a strategy of farming system intensification by localization of organic and mineral fertilization, as well as a better management of rainwater. Tree regeneration occurs where "zaï" or "djengo" practice is used. This study highlights the necessity of better controlling soil, water, and organic matter to improve agrosystem viability as a key for the success of the Green Revolution in sub-Saharan Africa.