Summary
This review examines rice production trends and constraints across sub-Saharan Africa, where production has increased ten-fold since 1961 but yields remain low at approximately 2 t ha⁻¹, with consumption outpacing supply at only 48% regional self-sufficiency. The paper identifies low yields in rainfed environments (70% of harvested area) as the primary challenge, driven by climate extremes, soil constraints, and suboptimal management practices amongst smallholder farmers. The authors synthesise agronomic technologies developed over three decades—including water conservation, site-specific nutrient management, and labour-saving approaches—and conclude that further locally-adapted solutions are needed to enhance resilience and sustainability of rice cultivation.
UK applicability
Limited direct applicability to UK rice production, as the UK has minimal commercial rice cultivation and different agro-climatic conditions. However, the review's insights into water management, nutrient optimisation, and climate adaptation in rainfed systems may inform UK policy on supporting agricultural development in partner regions and understanding global food security challenges.
Key measures
Rice yield (tonnes per hectare), regional self-sufficiency rate (%), harvested area, proportion of rainfed rice production, water stress impacts, soil constraints, fertiliser and herbicide use efficiency
Outcomes reported
The paper reports the status quo of rice production in sub-Saharan Africa, documents major agronomic constraints (particularly in rainfed environments), and reviews selected achievements and future research perspectives from the Africa Rice Center and partners.
Topic tags
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