West Africa: SRI Launches Rice Offensive!

Rice, a vital crop in West Africa, has been the focus of a key regional forum in Bamako since yesterday, Monday, May 5, 2025. Thirteen countries and international organizations are discussing sustainable agricultural systems and the development of the System of Rice Intensification (SRI).

Rice: A Key Issue in Food Security.

West Africa consumes 20 million tonnes of rice annually (45-55 kg/capita). However, growing demand is outstripping supply, increasing imports.

Bamako, Rice Processing Center.

The Prime Minister opened this vital forum, bringing together experts from 13 African nations and international partners to share their experiences to promote SRI.

Priority: Adaptation and Local Production.

Faliry Boly (IFRIZ-MALI) insisted on adaptation and local involvement for endogenous development via national production.

Emergency: Support for Producers.

For his part, the Prime Minister emphasized the urgency of helping vulnerable producers. He also reiterated the alignment of the SRI with Mali’s national development strategies and assured the government’s full commitment to the development of the regional SRI.

Collective Action for the Future.

The head of government welcomed the commitment of the Minister of Agriculture and thanked the German Cooperation for its continued support of the SRI. In conclusion, collective action is essential for West African food security, in which the SRI could play a major role.