Ivorian farmers turn to new rice variety for increased yields, profit

CÔTE D’IVOIRE – Ivorian farmers are embracing a new rice variety, introduced as a part of a program designed to increase the output of the regional staple food and cut dependence on imports, which promises to transform their agricultural practices and boost their livelihoods.

This innovative grain, resistant to unpredictable weather conditions, has enabled farmers to achieve significantly higher yields and increase their annual harvests.

Currently, Ivory Coast’s production of local white rice is at 1.4 million metric tons, significantly below the national consumption of 2.1 million metric tons.

To bridge this gap, Ivory Coast has traditionally imported rice from countries like India, Thailand, and Pakistan. However, recent export restrictions by India have raised concerns about potential shortages in several African countries.

Stepping up to the challenge, the Agency for the Development of the Rice Sector (Aderiz) has taken the lead in implementing a substantial investment strategy to address the rice production gap.

With a substantial investment of 330 billion CFA francs (US$551.38 million) from the state, partners, and the private sector, Aderiz is on a mission to make Ivory Coast self-sufficient in rice production within three years. By 2027, the production could soar to 2.2 million metric tons, a significant leap towards achieving this goal.

“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 Aderiz.

With this new variety, rice growers can now achieve two harvests per year, yielding up to 5 metric tons per hectare. This is a significant improvement from previous years, where farmers in some areas struggled to produce even one metric ton per hectare, paving the way for a more productive future.

The program’s success, attributed to a combination of better irrigation, mechanization, and improved short-cycle drought-resistant seeds, has significantly improved farmers’ productivity and profitability, painting a promising picture for the future of Ivorian rice production.

The potential impact of this shift extends beyond individual farmers, promising a boost for the entire nation. By reducing reliance on foreign rice imports, Ivory Coast can enhance its food security and promote self-sufficiency.

The new rice variety has also garnered praise for its scent, flavor, and resilience to frequent water shortages, making it highly valued in the local market. The average price for this type of milled rice is 650 CFA francs (US$1.09) per kilogram, reflecting its premium quality.

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