The Director General of the Central Agricultural Research Institute, Dr. Arthur Bob Karnuah, assured delegates that the AfricaRice Council of Ministers and National Experts remain robust and united, driven by the collective commitment of its member states to achieve rice self-sufficiency across the continent. 

“The AfricaRice remains strong because the member states of the Association strongly believe in going together to attain rice self-sufficiency,” Dr. Karnuah stated. 

Dr. Karnuah expressed profound gratitude to Madagascar for hosting this pivotal meeting which, according to him, allowed stakeholders to come together to chart a forward path in their shared mission.

“I extend our deepest gratitude to the government and people of Madagascar for their warm and cordial reception of participants at the 33rd ordinary session of the Council held from November 13-15, 2024 in Antananarivo.  Dr. Karnuah added.

He emphasized that as stakeholders strive towards this attainable goal, the collaboration and solidarity displayed at the 33rd Council of Ministers (COM), serve as a testament to their unwavering dedication to advancing rice production and ensuring food security in Africa.

Dr. Karnauh disclosed this on behalf of AfricaRice, the 33rd Council of Ministers (COM), the National Experts Committee (NEC), and AfricaRice management at the forum in Antananarivo, Madagascar.

“We are grateful to Madagascar for bringing us together to examine the way forward as we strive to attain this achievable goal,” he added.

The Director General also expressed exceptional hospitality and the generosity of the Malagasy government and people in providing financial, material, and human resources support to AfricaRice management and staff, all of which have been invaluable in the successful preparation for the meeting.

Also on behalf of the delegates, he particularly, expressed heartfelt thanks to His Excellency President Andrey Nerena Razualena, and His Excellency François Sergoa Hazareson, Minister of Agriculture and Livestock and Chairperson of the Council, for their warm hospitality, kind-heartedness, and friendship extended during their stay.

The meeting focused on developing a strategic plan and roadmap to achieve African rice self-sufficiency. This included identifying key areas for research and development, enhancing seed systems, mechanization, irrigation, and improving agronomic practices to increase rice yields.

The importance of collaborative efforts and partnerships was highlighted, with member states agreeing to strengthen cooperation among national agricultural research institutes, international research organizations, and the private sector. This collaborative approach aims to leverage resources and expertise to accelerate progress towards rice self-sufficiency.

The meeting emphasized the need for capacity building and knowledge sharing among member states. Training programs, workshops, and exchange visits will be organized to enhance the skills and knowledge of researchers, extension workers, and farmers.

Investment in infrastructure and technology was identified as a critical factor for achieving rice self-sufficiency. Member states are committed to improving irrigation systems, storage facilities, and processing units, as well as, adopting modern technologies to enhance productivity and reduce post-harvest losses.

The importance of policy support and advocacy was underscored, with member states agreeing to work towards creating an enabling environment for rice production. This includes formulating policies that promote investment in the rice sector, providing subsidies and incentives for farmers, and ensuring access to credit and markets.

The 33rd COM meeting of the AfricaRice Association has reaffirmed the commitment of its member states to achieving rice self-sufficiency in Africa. The collective efforts and solidarity displayed during the meeting have set a strong foundation for future progress. With continued collaboration, investment, and policy support, Africa is well on its way to becoming self-sufficient in rice production, ensuring food security and improving the livelihoods of millions of farmers and consumers across the continent.