Contribution of improved rice varieties to poverty reduction and food security in sub-Saharan Africa

The dissemination of improved rice varieties could contribute significantly to achieving food security and reducing poverty in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This study assesses the number of households and individuals lifted out of poverty and food insecurity. Metadata and primary data collected from sixteen countries were analyzed. A positive impact of improved varieties on food security and poverty reduction was observed over the period 2000-2014. In addition, the rate of adoption of these varieties increased over these years and this increase was more significant after the 2008 food crisis. Average income also increased from US$ 25 capita-1 to US$ 58 capita-1 for NERICA adopters. These trends could be enhanced by addressing production constraints and certified seed bottlenecks.