IRRI opened a new regional office in Nairobi, Kenya to help Africa boost its rice productivity and self-sufficiency. Hosted by the International Livestock Research Institute and working closely with the Africa Rice Center (AfricaRice), the new regional hub will speed up IRRI’s ability to translate its 60-year history of success transforming the Asian rice sector to the African context.
IRRI’s efforts in the region will complement national agriculture priorities and a continent-wide strategy. The plan aims to reduce reliance on rice imports and reach 90% rice self-sufficiency by 2025. IRRI initiatives that support these priorities include deployment of high-yielding and climate-smart rice varieties, dissemination of locally adapted best practices in crop management and intensive farming, building the capability of rice scientists, and fostering partnerships that work towards efficient, sustainable and profitable rice-based systems.
“We are very excited to intensify our engagement here in Africa,” said IRRI Director General Matthew Morell. “Africa’s rice sector has enormous potential for growth. With strong leadership from governments and institutions, Africa can be self-sufficient in rice production and become a top producer globally, contributing to worldwide food security. IRRI’s research-based solutions for the rice sector coupled with the work of our sister CGIAR centers, national partners, and the private sector can help deliver these results.”