Focused on climate-resilient rice production, the seminar brought together 45 experts from across West Africa.
Organized by the National Rural Development Support Agency (ANADER), the event is part of the RICOWAS project – a large-scale initiative to improve rice cultivation methods in the face of climate change.
Funded by the Adaptation Fund, the project targets West Africa, a region highly susceptible to climate fluctuations and heavily reliant on rain-fed agriculture, particularly for rice, a staple food.
The RICOWAS project aims to empower rice-growing communities for a more sustainable livelihood, and diversify economic activities within the rice sector.
Enhance regional economies by allowing countries to invest in other areas, currently focused on rice imports.
Led by renowned researchers like Dr. Erika Styger (Cornell University) and Dr. Karim Traore (RICOWAS project coordinator), the seminar equipped participants with the latest climate-smart rice cultivation practices (SRI-PRRC).
These experts, now acting as master trainers, will further instruct local agricultural advisors to ensure better support for rice producers at the ground level.
The RICOWAS project spans 13 West African countries: Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo.
Statistics indicate that West Africa’s rice consumption is projected to surge by 32% (approximately 6 million tonnes) between 2017 and 2025 due to population growth. This initiative aims to ensure food security through climate-resilient practices.
By equipping farmers with the necessary knowledge and techniques, the RICOWAS project represents a significant step towards a more sustainable and food-secure future for West Africa.
AP/fss/abj/APA