HARNESSING THE POTENTIALS OF AFRICAN RICE (Oryza glaberrima Steud) IN THE QUEST FOR SELF-SUFFICIENCY AND INCREASED YIELD IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA

This study reviews recent literatures on the history of African rice (Oryza glaberrima), its present challenges and potentials. The study also reviewed the Asian rice green revolution strategy and how it could be adopted in Sub-Saharan Africa in harnessing the neglected potentials of African rice for self-sufficiency, high economic return for growers and poverty mitigation. The Asian green revolution in rice was phenomenal and improved the lives of millions of poor households in Asia. Researchers have pointed out that with vast areas in Africa well suited for rice production and the inherent traits of O. glaberrima to survive under major biotic and abiotic stresses, there could be a similar breakthrough in Africa if the right technologies used in the Asian green revolution in rice are adopted as template. With efficient follow-up policies, Africa could experience significant success on par with rice production in Asia or even greater. The question is can Africa kick-start her green revolution in rice?