Ivorian Farmers Boost Rice Production with New Drought-Resistant Variety

In Summary

• Ivorian farmers, like Francois Kasse Yao, have benefited from a new drought-resistant rice variety that allows for two harvests a year and higher yields.
• The program includes better irrigation, mechanization, and improved seeds, boosting rice production to up to 5 metric tons per hectare.
• Ivory Coast aims to reduce reliance on rice imports, potentially achieving self-sufficiency by 2027 with increased local production.
• The Ivorian government and private sector have invested 330 billion CFA francs to increase rice production, targeting 2.2 million tons by 2027.

YAMOUSSOUKRO-In Ivory Coast, a new drought-resistant rice variety is transforming the agricultural landscape for farmers like Francois Kasse Yao. Traditionally, Yao and other farmers in the region struggled to make ends meet with just one harvest per year. However, the introduction of this innovative grain has enabled them to double their output, harvesting twice annually and achieving yields of up to 5 metric tons per hectare.

This change is part of a broader initiative designed to increase local rice production, reduce the country's dependency on imports, and improve the livelihoods of farmers. The program, which includes better irrigation, advanced mechanization, and the use of short-cycle, drought-resistant seeds, has dramatically improved productivity. In areas where farmers previously produced just one metric ton per hectare, they are now seeing significantly higher yields.

For Yao, the impact has been life-changing. "Today's yields are better... This time we've started with a new variety, so today we're doing just fine," said the 52-year-old farmer, who is currently harvesting rice in Subiakro, a village located over 14 kilometers from the Ivorian capital, Yamoussoukro.

Another farmer, Hermane N'Guessan Kouame, praised the new rice variety for its resilience to water shortages and its desirable qualities, such as its scent and flavor, which make it highly sought after in the local market. Kouame, who farms a 44-hectare plot in Zatta, 20 kilometers from Yamoussoukro, noted that the rice adapts well to varying climatic conditions, ensuring consistent yields regardless of weather changes.

Despite these advancements, Ivory Coast still faces challenges in meeting its national rice consumption needs. Currently, the country produces 1.4 million metric tons of local white rice, while national consumption stands at 2.1 million tons. As a result, Ivory Coast continues to rely on rice imports from countries like India, Thailand, and Pakistan.

However, recent global market fluctuations, such as India's decision to curb rice exports, have raised concerns about potential shortages across several African nations. In response, the Ivorian government, in collaboration with its partners and the private sector, has invested 330 billion CFA francs ($551.38 million) to boost domestic rice production. The goal is to achieve self-sufficiency by 2027, with projected production reaching 2.2 million tons.

"We're going to make progress. We're going to go fast, especially with the system we've put in place," said Yacouba Dembele, managing director of the Agency for the Development of the Rice Sector (Aderiz).

As Ivory Coast continues to implement these initiatives, the future looks promising for local rice farmers and the nation's overall food security. With sustained efforts, the country is on track to reduce its dependency on imports and ensure that its growing population is fed by homegrown produce.