Africa needs not take up extensive land conversion to increase its rice production, says a new study. The continent should instead consider improved agronomic practices, such as land development, soil and plant nutrition, weed control and water management.
“Nearly 15 million hectares of rice are waiting for yield improvement in Africa, but no yield gain can be achieved without better agronomy,” said research coordinator, Patricio Grassini, “Intensifying rice production to reduce imports and land conversion in Africa is pertinent.”
