Ivory Coast secures US$1.2M to accelerate digital transformation of rice sector in pursuit of self-sufficiency

Ivory Coast has received US$1.2 million in funding from the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), with financial backing from the Japanese government, to accelerate the digital transformation of its rice sector.

The announcement was made on July 29, 2025, during a meeting between FAO representative Nyemah Joseph and Agriculture Minister Kobenan Kouassi Adjoumani.

The initiative aims to modernise the entire rice value chain, from production to distribution, by integrating digital tools that improve efficiency, transparency, and farmer support.

This funding builds on the country’s existing efforts under the National Strategy for Rice Development (SNDR 2.0), which includes the launch of Orange Agritech, a digital platform developed in partnership with telecom operator Orange Côte d’Ivoire.

Orange Agritech provides real-time access to weather and water data, inventory and personnel management tools, and electronic payment systems.

Since 2022, major rice processors like the Agricultural and Management Company (AMC) have adopted the platform to streamline logistics and enhance farmer support.

The new funding will expand the platform’s reach across the rice ecosystem, helping to reduce inefficiencies and improve access to inputs, financing, and market data.

This digital push is of utmost importance as Ivory Coast is in a race against time to achieve rice self-sufficiency by 2026. In 2024, the country produced 1.4 million tons of white rice, falling short of its 2.5-million-ton consumption target.

Experts estimate that production must increase by nearly 55% within two years to meet national demand.

Minister Adjoumani emphasised that digitalisation is key to unlocking productivity and resilience in the sector.

The FAO-Japan partnership is expected to catalyse further investment and innovation, positioning Ivory Coast as a regional leader in smart agriculture.

As global food systems face mounting pressure, Ivory Coast’s tech-driven approach to rice development reflects a broader commitment to food security, economic empowerment, and sustainable growth.

The digitalisation strategy is not only about technology but also about transforming livelihoods and ensuring that every grain of rice counts.

This article has been republished from The Milling Middle East & Africa.