Burkina Faso advances toward food self-sufficiency with ambitious rice program
Under the leadership of President Ibrahim Traoré, Burkina Faso is making decisive strides toward food self-sufficiency through a major national rice initiative. The program aims to strengthen food security, improve farmers’ livelihoods, and reduce dependency on imports.
Recent visits by Prime Minister Rimtalba Jean-Emmanuel Ouédraogo to rice-growing plains underscore the commitment of the government to establishing rice as a strategic pillar of agricultural and economic development.
Early results are promising: though full production potential is estimated at 4,000 tons, some 2,500 tons are expected this season a significant boost for the 927 producers involved.
The Prime Minister has directed continued rehabilitation of rice plains and fuller utilization of their potential, aligning with a long-term vision to make Burkina Faso self-sufficient in rice and regionally competitive.
By scaling local production, the government aims to stabilize local prices and curb import reliance.
Beyond production figures, the program offers broad socioeconomic benefits creating jobs in processing, trade, and transport, particularly for youth and women.
Modernizing the rice sector enhances resilience against food crises and lays the foundation for sustainable, inclusive agricultural growth.
Olivier TOE
