AfricaRice Science Week 2024: Transforming Africa’s Rice Sector through Science and R&D Partnerships
Mbé, Côte d’Ivoire – AfricaRice Science Week 2024 brought together scientists, policymakers, private sector actors, and development partners at the AfricaRice research station in Mbé from November 25 to 29, 2024. This pivotal event focused on transforming Africa’s rice-based food systems to achieve self-sufficiency in the face of climate and geopolitical challenges.
“The results of this meeting will equip not only Côte d'Ivoire but also other African countries with the means to respond to the effects of climate change and achieve food self-sufficiency through various innovations and techniques.”, explained Mr. Kassoum Karamoko, Director General of Rice Promotion at Côte d'Ivoire Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.
Keynote speeches from distinguished experts, including Prof. Patricio Grassini, Prof. Erik J. Sacks, and Dr. Mohammed Moro Buri, set the stage by addressing critical themes like policy frameworks, perennial rice innovations, and Smart-Valleys approaches.
As discussions deepened, participants explored strategies for climate-resilient agriculture, geopolitical impacts on rice supply chains, and the role of R&D partnerships in boosting local production.
As discussions deepened, participants explored strategies for climate-resilient agriculture, geopolitical impacts on rice supply chains, and the role of R&D partnerships in boosting local production.
The week also featured task force meetings and bilateral sessions aimed at strengthening collaboration among agronomy, breeding, policy, and post-harvest experts. A highlight of the event was a field visit to M'Bahiakro near Bouaké, where participants interacted with rice farmers, gaining firsthand insights into how AfricaRice supports the entire value chain.
This ambitious meeting highlighted:
Impact of climate change: Exploring solutions for climate resilient agriculture, including the development of rice varieties adapted to local conditions.
· Geopolitical challenges: Analysis of the impact of global crises on rice supply chains and opportunities to reduce import dependence.
Importance of research and development: Promotion of partnerships between research institutes, universities, the private sector and governments to innovate in rice production and distribution systems.
Strategies for self-sufficiency: Definition of concrete steps to strengthen local production and ensure equitable and sustainable access to rice for African populations.
The event underscored the importance of uniting stakeholders—NARS, One CGIAR, private sector representatives, farmers, NGOs, and donors—to build resilient and equitable rice production systems. Dr. Baboucarr Manneh, AfricaRice Director General, emphasized: “By leveraging our collective expertise, we can make Africa a leader in global rice production, ensuring food and nutrition security for all.”
AfricaRice Science Week 2024 served as a catalyst for new partnerships and investments, charting a path toward a sustainable, rice-self-sufficient Africa resilient to global challenges.
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