Quick Summary: African Development Bank (AfDB) and ECOWAS have signed a $12 million grant agreement to boost rice production in West Africa through the REWARD project. This initiative aims to enhance food security, reduce dependency on imports, and strengthen local agricultural value chains. The project aligns with regional policies to promote sustainable farming. Its successful implementation will create jobs, stabilize economies, and improve resilience against food crises.
$12 Million Agreement Signed to Boost Rice Production
The African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission have signed a $12 million grant agreement to implement the Rice Resilient Value Chains Development Project (REWARD). This initiative aims to enhance food security across West Africa by improving rice production and value chains.
The signing ceremony took place at the ECOWAS Commission Headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria. This milestone agreement is part of a broader effort to reduce the region’s dependency on rice imports and strengthen local agricultural systems.
Enhancing Regional Rice Production
The REWARD project focuses on attracting public and private investments in rice value chains by leveraging successful business models. It is part of a larger AfDB-funded regional rice development program spanning all 15 ECOWAS member states.
The agreement was signed by ECOWAS Commission President, H.E. Dr. Alieu Omar Touray, and AfDB’s Director General for Nigeria, Dr. Abdul Kamara, who represented AfDB President, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina.
Addressing West Africa’s Rice Deficit
Rice is a staple food in West Africa and a crucial economic commodity. However, despite the region’s agricultural potential, heavy reliance on imports continues to strain economies and food systems. With demand expected to rise significantly, strengthening local rice production is a top priority.
The REWARD project aims to address this challenge through policy reforms, improved regulation of agricultural inputs, and the adoption of digital monitoring systems. The ECOWAS Commission, alongside the ECOWAS Rice Observatory, will oversee the project’s implementation.
ECOWAS and AfDB’s Commitment to Agricultural Development
During the signing ceremony, Dr. Touray reaffirmed ECOWAS’ commitment to accelerating the implementation of REWARD. He highlighted how the project aligns with the bloc’s 4X4 Strategy, which focuses on regional peace and security, deeper economic integration, good governance, and inclusive development.
“I want to express my sincere appreciation to AfDB President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina for his unwavering commitment to Africa’s development, particularly in West Africa. Food security is integral to peace and stability, making the rapid implementation of REWARD essential for the region,” Dr. Touray stated.
Dr. Kamara echoed these sentiments, emphasizing AfDB’s dedication to supporting food security and value chain development in West Africa.
Aligning with Regional and Continental Agricultural Goals
The REWARD-ECOWAS initiative aligns with the ECOWAS Regional Rice Roadmap (2025-2035), the Action Plan of the ECOWAS Rice Observatory, and the ECOWAS Agricultural Policy (ECOWAP). It also supports AfDB’s broader mission of enhancing agricultural productivity and strengthening regional food systems.
By securing this grant, ECOWAS member states have a unique opportunity to transform their rice sectors, achieve food sovereignty, and reduce dependency on external markets. The success of the REWARD project is expected to not only feed millions but also create jobs, stabilize economies, and bolster the region’s resilience against future food crises.
