Journal Articles

2025 ARTICLES

Development of an efficient seed dormancy breaking method for African rice (Oryza glaberrima)

Seed dormancy is a major limiting factor for the conservation, evaluation, distribution and utilization of African cultivated rice (Oryza glaberrima). In this study, 20 accessions from the AfricaRice genebank were subjected to different treatments: dry heat at 50 or 60°C for 2 to 28 days; chemical solutions (KCl, HNO3, KH2PO4, GA3); and dehulling. Results showed that dry heat at 50°C for 28 days was most effective in breaking dormancy of intact seeds, while dehulled seeds responded well to all treatments except HNO3. After validation on 287 accessions, this protocol proved reliable for improving germination rates. These findings provide an effective method to overcome seed dormancy, facilitating better management and use of O. glaberrima genetic resources in research and breeding programs.

Read More: https://doi.org/10.15258/sst.2025.53.1.09 ( Open Access)

Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae improve growth performance and flesh quality of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus)

This study shows that black soldier fly larvae meal (BSFLM) can effectively replace fishmeal in African catfish feed, improving growth, survival, and profitability. Processing methods (toasting, boiling) affect nutritional and microbial quality. Substituting 75–100% BSFLM reduces production costs and environmental impact by lowering reliance on imported fishmeal. BSFLM promotes sustainable and economically viable aquaculture, ideal for Cameroonian fish farmers. Its adoption could enhance food security and support resilient fish farming practices.

Read More:https://doi.org/10.1007/s44338-024-00045-8 ( Open Access)

Do behavioral attitudes of livestock farmers in Cameroon influence the adoption of insect-based feed? An application of the theory of planned behavior

This study examines the adoption of insect-based feed (IBF) among Cameroonian livestock farmers, finding that only 18.32% currently use it. Farmers’ attitudes directly influence adoption, while perceived behavioral control and subjective norms have an indirect effect by shaping attitudes. Interventions should focus on improving perceptions, providing training, and leveraging social influence. Strengthening access to resources and peer endorsements could enhance uptake. The findings highlight the need for behavioral strategies to promote sustainable feed alternatives in livestock farming.

Mitigating pesticide risk on bee pollinators and angiosperm biodiversity in the Ndop wetlands: A conservation approach

This study evaluated pesticide risks on bee pollinators in the Ndop wetlands and proposed conservation strategies for entomophilous angiosperms. Results showed excessive pesticide use, with insecticides posing the highest risks. Emamectin benzoate had the highest exposure toxicity ratio (ETR=591.4), followed by imidacloprid, fipronil, and chlorpyrifos. Nearly 90% of entomophilous species rely on bee pollinators. To reduce risks, farmers should avoid pesticide application during blooming and peak pollinator activity, especially at midday.

Rice varietal selection under irrigated conditions in the Senegal River Valley using additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) modeling approach

This study evaluated the stability of 34 rice varieties under irrigated conditions across two locations, focusing on genotype × environment interactions (GEI). Clustering and AMMI models identified the best-performing varieties based on yield, maturity, and harvest index. Nine genotypes showed high stability, with FAROX 508-3-10-F43-1-1 and WAB 1491-5N-B-FKR3-WACB being the most adapted across environments. However, these varieties were not the highest yielders, though their yields remained significant. The highest yield was recorded for WAB 2066-6-FKR4-WAC1-TGR1-B-WAT-B9 at 9.51 t×ha⁻¹.

Characterization of Genetic and Agromorphological Variation in 30 Soybean (Glycine max) Accessions in Northern and Southern Benin

A study assessed the genetic and agromorphological variability of 30 soybean accessions in Benin. Conducted at two sites, it revealed significant variability in traits, with top-yielding accessions differing by location. Phenotypic variation was higher than genotypic variation, and heritability ranged from 20% to 100%. Key traits like plant height, seed characteristics, and grain yield showed strong genetic potential for selection. These findings highlight opportunities for improving soybean productivity and farmer incomes.

Read More: https://doi.org/10.1155/sci5/3449081 ( Open Access)

Identification, characterization and distribution of phytopathogenic bacterial species Pantoea associated with rice seed in Africa

A study on rice seeds from 21 African countries identified Pantoea species as emerging pathogens causing bacterial leaf blight. Pantoea stewartii, Pantoea ananatis, and Pantoea deleyi were detected in 15 countries. Pathogenicity tests showed that Pantoea stewartii affects the rice variety Gigante, while Pantoea ananatis impacts Moroberekan and Azucena. These findings highlight the need for monitoring and disease management. Special attention should be given to these emerging Pantoea strains in Africa.

Read More: https://doi.org/10.26167/4z72-jg73( Open access)

Field Evaluation of Advanced Rice Lines for Adaptability to Drought and Heat in the Senegal River Valley

This study evaluated 112 advanced rice lines in Ndiaye and Fanaye, Senegal, to identify high-yielding varieties under drought and heat stress. Results showed significant variations, with Ndiaye facing harsher conditions that negatively impacted key growth traits. The best-performing lines in Ndiaye yielded up to 6943 kg/ha, while those in Fanaye reached 9639 kg/ha. These lines outperformed local varieties and are recommended for release or breeding programs. Further research should assess their stability across different environments.

Read More : https://doi.org/10.1002/pei3.70034 ( Open access)

Yield stability of four staple crops of sub‑Saharan Africa: analysis of long‑term trials

This study examines the effects of agronomic interventions on the yield and yield stability of maize, rice, sorghum, and pearl millet in Sub-Saharan Africa. Mineral fertilizer application significantly increased yield (48–185%) and the sustainable yield index (49–257%). Organic inputs and green manure also improved yield and stability, especially for maize. In contrast, conservation tillage and intercropping had no significant effect. The study highlights the need for new long-term experiments focusing on rice, sorghum, and millet.

Exploring shifts in values among urban Senegalese: The impact of global crises on social and cultural norms

This study examines the impact of COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine war on the values of urban Senegalese in Saint-Louis. Between 2018 and 2022, the cost of living dropped by 19.9%, and the proportion of households living below the poverty line increased by 11.05%. Values such as benevolence, universalism, and hedonism declined, while power and achievement gained importance. These shifts highlight the adaptability of individual values in response to global crises.

Quantitative Trait Loci for Phenology, Yield, and Phosphorus Use Efficiency in Cowpea

The article focuses on the genetic basis of cowpea's response to different phosphorus (P) conditions in sub-Saharan Africa. The study identifies quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with key traits such as flowering, maturity, biomass yield, and phosphorus use efficiency across various environments with differing P availability. The research found significant phenotypic variation among the tested populations, with 40 QTLs identified in single-environment analyses and 23 in multi-environment analyses. Notably, some QTLs showed consistent effects under both high and low P conditions, suggesting their potential for breeding programs aimed at improving P-use efficiency in cowpea. The study provides valuable insights for molecular breeding, with implications for increasing cowpea productive in low-phosphorus soils.

Linking weather and climate information services (WCIS) to Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) practices

This study explores the connections between Weather and Climate Information Services (WCIS) and Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) in the Global South, focusing on Africa. It evaluates how WCIS supports smallholder farmers in adopting CSA practices, especially in agricultural water management (AWM). The findings show that seasonal and daily forecasts are key tools, guiding irrigation, water harvesting, and other practices like composting, improved crop varieties, and crop insurance. Different CSA practices are closely linked to specific weather information, such as rainfall patterns and temperature. The study concludes that expanding access to WCIS can enhance the adoption and scaling of CSA practices, benefiting smallholder farmers.

Genetic Analysis of the Bacterial Leaf Streak Pathogen Responsible for Severe Rice Infections in Senegal and Identification of Sources of Resistance

Bacterial leaf streak (BLS) caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzicola (Xoc) poses a significant threat to rice production in Senegal, particularly with the highly pathogenic strain S52-4-4, which overcomes resistance in all local varieties tested. This strain shares an evolutionary link with strains from the Philippines and Malaysia, with a comparable number of TAL effectors. A prompt response is essential, including genomic monitoring, the development of resistant varieties, and integrated disease management strategies.

Combined effects of salt-tolerant varieties and improved nutrient management practices on rice yield and profitability under salt-affected soils in the West African Sahelahel

Soil salinity limits rice production in the Senegal River Valley. This study assessed the agronomic and economic performance of salt-tolerant rice varieties and integrated salinity management practices through on-station and on-farm trials (2020–2021). Combined options with tolerant varieties, fertilizers (NPK, gypsum, Zn), and improved practices increased yields by 24–56% and profitability by up to €317/ha. Farmers preferred accessible options, using salt-tolerant varieties in 85% of trials. Results highlight the effectiveness of integrated approaches to enhance productivity on saline soils.

Tailoring fertilizer rates to catena positions improves nutrient use efficiency of rice in inland valleys of West Africa

This paper investigates the impact of tailoring nitrogen fertilizer rates to specific catena positions within inland valley ecosystems in West Africa on rice yields, nutrient use efficiency, and economic profitability. The study provides insights into optimizing fertilizer applications across varied topographical and hydrological conditions to improve productivity and resource efficiency in rainfed rice systems.

2024 ARTICLES

Mycotoxin concentrations in rice are affected by chalkiness, grain shape, processing type, and grain origin

Mycotoxins like aflatoxins (AFs), fumonisins (FBs), zearalenone (ZEN), and deoxynivalenol (DON) pose health risks due to their carcinogenic and anti-nutritional effects, particularly in regions with inadequate food management systems. A study analyzing 527 rice samples from 54 markets across five sub-Saharan African countries found AFs in 72% of samples, with 47% exceeding the EU maximum limit of 4 µg/kg. Co-occurrence of AFs and ZEN was observed in 40% of samples, with 30% of ZEN-positive samples exceeding the 75 µg/kg limit. Grain quality traits such as slenderness, chalkiness, and mixed variety significantly influenced AF levels. Improved grain quality, proper drying, and hermetic storage are recommended to reduce contamination.

Read More: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12550-024-00575-w ( Open access)

Analyzing Farmers’ Behavior in the Adoption of Paid Digital Extension Service: Experimental Evidence of Rice Advice in Nigeria

This study investigates smallholder farmers' adoption of paid digital extension services in Jigawa and Kano states, Nigeria. It finds that perceived usefulness and ease of use significantly influence adoption and attitudes. Farmers show a positive perception of these services, with flexible pricing and payment methods boosting uptake. The research highlights strategies to overcome adoption barriers and supports scaling digital extension services in developing countries.

Read More: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10745-024-00555-9 (open Access)

Genetic variation and population structure of the rice accessions maintained in the AfricaRice genebank using DArTseq

The study explores the genetic diversity of 9,013 rice accessions held in the AfricaRice genebank, focusing on five rice species: Oryza barthii, Oryza glaberrima, Oryza longistaminata, Oryza sativa indica, and Oryza sativa japonica. Using DArTseq genotyping, researchers identified 27,718 single nucleotide polymorphism markers, revealing significant genetic diversity. The accessions were grouped into six clusters based on genetic and taxonomic relationships, with high genetic distances observed among them. This analysis provides crucial insights into rice diversity, aiding future breeding and genetic research efforts.

Labour-saving sowing tools for direct dry seeding of rice in Madagascar

Manual rice sowing is labor-intensive, causing delays due to labor shortages. To improve efficiency, single-row rotary seeders and fertiseeders were tested in Madagascar, showing up to 82% time savings over manual methods. The CFFAMMA seeder was the most effective, with similar yields and benefit-cost ratios as manual sowing. Despite farmers' willingness (96%) to adopt these tools, high costs remain a barrier, as their willingness to pay ($8–11) falls far below the actual price ($68–81). Further fine-tuning and financial support are needed for broader adoption.

Identification of African rice genotypes with early morning flowering trait to avoid heat stress

Early morning flowering (EMF) in rice helps avoid heat stress, especially during the sensitive flowering stage. From 2016 to 2018, 2093 rice accessions, including Oryza glaberrima and O. sativa, were tested in Cotonou, Benin, and Ibadan, Nigeria. After multiple screenings, only 1754 accessions germinated, with 64 showing consistent EMF traits. Among these, 15 accessions also displayed early spikelet opening time (EPSOT), flowering before 09:00 h. These 15 accessions are considered valuable for breeding heat-resistant rice varieties.

Evaluation of cowpea varieties and hybrids tolerance to water deficit during vegetative and reproductive phases

This study aimed to identify cowpea genotypes tolerant to water deficit. Twenty-six genotypes were tested under well-watered and stressed conditions in a greenhouse at IITA, Benin, during the 2021 dry season. The results revealed significant reductions in proline, chlorophyll, pods per plant, seeds per pod, seed weight, and yield due to water deficit. Genotypes KVX396-18, IT97K-206-1-1, and others showed the highest tolerance and yield under stress, while some genotypes like KVX61-1 and IT07K-211-1-8 were drought-sensitive. Traits like pods per plant and seed weight can be targeted in breeding programs to enhance drought tolerance and yield.

Read more: https://ejfa.pensoft.net/article/126044/ ( Open Access)

Multi-Elemental Analysis and 2D Image Mapping within Roots, Leaves and Seeds from O. glaberrima Rice Plants Using Micro-PIXE Technique

This study focuses on the accumulation of metals in the roots, leaves and seeds of Oryza glaberrima to improve its physiological traits under saline conditions. Microanalytical imaging techniques, in particular PIXE, will be used to map low atomic mass elements. Species FL-478 and SL-134 show a constant uptake of P and K, while species 315(6) and 315(2) show a higher concentration of Si in the seeds. Micro PIXE analysis reveals the localisation of Cl, Si and K in the epicuticular layer of the leaves, while other elements are found in the cytoplasm. This suggests potential salt tolerance mechanisms.

Read more: 10.4236/wjnst.2024.142005 (Open Access)

Evaluation of Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) Survival and Growth in Aquaculture Systems with Different Feed Types

Proper feeding is crucial for promoting fast and healthy growth in fish, contributing to increased overall production. However, access to high-nutritional feed is not always feasible. Utilizing locally available ingredients presents a potential solution to this challenge. this research aims to assess the impact of locally available feed ingredients on the growth and production of tilapia (O. niloticus) in Liberia. Three types of fish feed were prepared, namely Africa Rice fish feed (diet 1), soybeans fish feed (diet 2), and Gbarnga fish feed (control), each with distinct compositions. The growth results revealed a statistically significant difference (P < 0.001) among the three selected fish feed types.

Read More: https://doi.org/10.9734/arrb/2024/v39i92119 (Open access)

Consistent yield performance of rice genotypes grown under irrigated conditions in wet and dry seasons in West Africa

Double cropping of rice in irrigated systems is essential to increase rice production and ensure food security in West Africa. Rice breeding programmes need to develop genotypes that are expected to perform well in both wet and dry seasons or in a specific season. In this study, the authors investigated the consistency of genotypic performance over two seasons and identified high-yielding genotypes and their characteristics.

Ratoon rice research: Review and prospect for the tropics

In this paper the team reviewed the agronomic, economic and environmental performances of ratoon rice and proposed a research agenda, with a focus on the improvement of genetic and agronomic practices to explore the potential of ratoon rice cropping, especially in the tropics.

Improving rice yield and water productivity in dry climatic zones of West Africa: Season-specific strategies

In this paper, the team evaluated season-specificity of determinants of yield and water productivity variability in irrigated rice in West Africa and recommended improved water and fertilizer management to achieving the dual goal of narrowing the yield gap and improving water productivity, while increasing nutrient use efficiency, particularly in the dry season.

Alternate wetting and drying: a water‑saving technology for sustainable rice production in Burkina Faso?

In this paper, the team assessed the potentials and risks associated alternate wetting and severe soil drying for smallholder rice farmers in the semi-arid zones of West Africa and concluded that at locations with shallow groundwater table, alternate wetting and severe can save irrigation water up to 60% without reducing the grain yield and the use efficiency of applied mineral nutrients. This represents a notable improvement over the typical 30% water use reduction achieved with alternate wetting and moderate drying, where applicable.

A gendered analysis of farmers’ access to and willingness to pay for climate information services: Evidence from rice farmers in Mali

In this paper, the team examines the predictors of smallholder farmers' access to and willingness to pay for climate information services in Mali, with a focus on gender differences. The study identifies key predictors such as access to training, radio, and irrigation facilities, and suggests gender-inclusive climate information services to improve the adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices and enhance farmers' resilience to climate change.

Decision support tools for agricultural adaptation in Africa

This collaborative paper discusses the potential and limitations of web-based Decision Support Tools (DSTs) for informing adaptation investments, highlighting the need for improved user experience, sustainability, and actionable solutions. It emphasizes the importance of tailoring DSTs to users' needs, adopting open standards, and incorporating socio-political factors to enhance their effectiveness in agricultural adaptation.

The physicochemical and nutritional properties of biscuits from low temperature dried breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis (Parkinson) Fosberg) flour

In order to reduce post-maturity losses and raise awareness of the food value and versatility of breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis), the authors characterised the physicochemical, nutritional and sensory properties of sun-dried (96 h ± 28oC) and oven-dried (72 h, 50oC) breadfruit flour and biscuits. The results showed that breadfruit flour and biscuits are rich in minerals that are essential for public health, with iron being particularly present in biscuits.

Adoption of ICT4D and its determinants: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Various digital agricultural technologies (DATs) have been developed and implemented around the world.
around the world. This study aims to estimate the overall adoption rate and to identify the determining factors for a better adoption prospect after decades of innovation and diffusion.
A systematic review was conducted of published studies that reported adoption rates and determinants using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocol.

Read More: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e30210 (Open Access)

Assessing the spatial distribution patterns of suitable inland valleys for rice development: A case study of two contrasting regions in Benin

The aim of this study was to model the spatial distribution patterns of lowland areas suitable for rice production. Data were collected in two contrasting regions of Benin, namely the Mono and Couffo departments (Mono-Couffo) and the Haut Ouémé watershed (Haut Ouémé). The results showed that the GWR model outperformed the OLS model in assessing the spatial distribution of suitability of IVs. The results demonstrated the effectiveness of the GWR model in assessing the distribution of highly suitable IVs.

Agronomic and economic evaluation of ratoon rice cropping systems with perennial rice varieties in West Africa

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of the cropping system and the perennial rice variety
on grain yield, labour productivity and profitability in irrigated lowlands of West Africa. Experiments were conducted for two years at two sites: Mbe in Côte d′Ivoire and Ndiaye in Senegal, located in the subhumid and Sahelian climatic zones, respectively.
The results showed that the cropping system, the variety and their interaction had significant effects on grain yield, labour productivity and profitability at both sites,

Twenty-five rice research priorities for sustainable rice systems by 2050

In this study, the authors conducted a horizon scanning activity to identify and prioritise research gaps for sustainable rice systems by 2050. The horizon scanning involved a global and diverse panel of rice experts (101 from 31 countries). The panel responded to questionnaires on drivers, projections and research needs for rice AgR&D. Research gaps were then assessed in terms of their relevance and novelty for sustainable rice systems. These gaps highlight the research that needs to be prioritised to achieve sustainable rice systems that build resilience, conserve biodiversity and promote socio-economic well-being.

Adaptation And Selection of Early Maturing And High-Yielding Production of Some Exotic Rice Genotypes Under Egyptian Conditions

In this study, the genotypes grown during several successive seasons in 2020 and 2021 at the experimental farm of Sakha Agricultural Research Station, Sakha, Kafr El-Sheikh, Egypt, in order to identify and select the promising genotype desirable for earliness and high grain yield under Egyptian conditions. Analysis of variance showed large and significant differences between rice genotypes for all the traits studied.

Intensifying rice production to reduce imports and land conversion in Africa.

The authors used a process-based crop simulation modelling approach, combined with local meteorological, soil and management datasets, to assess the potential for increased rice production on existing cropland in Africa, as well as cropland expansion and rice imports by 2050 under different yield intensification scenarios. The conclusion is that Africa can avoid further increases in rice imports, and even reduce them, by combining the expansion of cultivated land in line with historical trends with a reduction by half or more of the current exploitable yield gap.

Read More: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-44950-8 (Open access)

Evaluating responses by ChatGPT to farmers’ questions on irrigated lowland rice cultivation in Nigeria

The objective of this study was to evaluate the ability of an AI chatbot assistant (ChatGPT) to provide quality responses to farmers’ questions.
In conclusion, while the chatbot could offer an alternative source for providing agricultural advisory services to farmers, incorporating site-specific input rate-and-timing agronomic practices into AI assistants is critical for their direct use by farmers.

A participatory framework for prioritizing climate-smart agriculture innovations in rice-based systems: A case study of Mali

In the paper, authors developed a participatory framework for prioritizing climate smart agriculture innovations in rice-based systems and identify the barriers, incentives and roles of institutions for widespread adoption using Mali as a case study. The framework developed in this study can be used to identify and invest into locally relevant best-bet CSA innovation packages.

Read More: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.atech.2023.100392 (Open access)

2023 ARTICLES

Efficacy of metarhizium anisopliae and beauveria bassiana as biological control agents of African Rice Gall Midge (AfRGM), Orseolia oryzivora Harris & Gagné

The study aimed to determine the effectiveness of Entomopathogenic fungi (EPF), Metarhizium anisopliae and Beauveria bassiana in controlling AfRGM on four popular rice cultivars under screenhouse conditions at AfricaRice/IITA, Ibadan, Nigeria. The experiment was laid out in a 4 x 3 factorial fitted in a completely randomized design (CRD) in three replications. Results showed that although both fungi significantly reduced AfRGM tiller infestation, the degree of reduction varied with the specific fungus and rice variety grown.

Genome-wide association analysis for emergence of deeply sown rice (Oryza sativa) reveals novel aus-specific phytohormone candidate genes for adaptation to dry-direct seeding in the field

Prior studies indicated that these phytohormones play a critical role in mesocotyl length under deep sowing. This study provides new insight into the importance of aus and indica as desirable genetic resources to mine favorable alleles for deep-sowing tolerance in rice. The candidate genes and marker-tagged desirable alleles identified in this study should benefit rice breeding programs directly.

Status quo and challenges of rice production in sub-Saharan Africa

This paper aims to provide the status quo of (i) current rice production and its challenges, (ii) selected achievements in rice agronomy research mainly by the Africa Rice Center and its partners, and (iii) perspectives for future research on rice agronomy in SSA. The major problems confronting rice production include low yield in rainfed environments, accounting for 70% of the total rice harvested area. For alleviating these constraints, a wide range of technologies have been developed and introduced over the last three decades. further research efforts are needed to develop locally adapted agronomic solutions for sustainable intensification.

Read More: https://doi.org/10.1080/1343943X.2023.2241712 (Open access)

Identification of Gendered Trait Preferences among Rice Producers Using the G+ Breeding Tools: Implications for Rice Improvement in Ghana

In this study the authors used an innovative set of selection tools, the G+ tools, to identify the trait preferences of men and women in order to develop a robust product profile using a mixed-methods approach. The assertion that "men focus more on production and marketing-related traits, while women focus on production and cooking qualities" was also confirmed. Descriptive, deductive and content analyses were carried out and the results indicate ecological differences in varietal choices. In conclusion, the results highlight the need for gender-sensitive breeding work that takes into account the different needs and priorities of targeted male and female rice farmers in breeding decisions for a robust rice product profile.

Read More: https://doi.org/10.3390/su15118462 (Open access)

Estimating oligopsonistic market power in Uganda’s rice industry

In this study the authors apply the conjectural variation approach to determine whether Ugandan rice traders exercise oligopsony power in the market for domestic rice. Using an econometric system of four equations, the null hypothesis of competitive behaviour is valid at different price elasticities of agricultural supply, ranging from inelastic to elastic supply. This implies that there is no evidence that rice traders apply oligopsony power when purchasing milled rice from farmers.

Read More: https://doi.org/10.1080/03031853.2023.2253795 (Open access)

Factors affecting the adoption of climate-smart agriculture technologies in rice farming systems in Mali, West Africa

The aim of this study was to identify CSA practices in rice cropping systems and to determine the factors that determine farmers' adoption. Interviews were conducted with 440 rice farmers, 70% of whom were women, in 16 focus groups, nine of which were exclusively for women, in the Sikasso region of Mali. Data was collected through interviews, surveys and focus group discussions. The results showed that crop diversification, improved rice varieties, crop rotation, tree planting, micro-dosing and rice production, micro-dosing of organic manure and micro-dosing of mineral fertiliser were CSA practices that were widely adopted in the study area.

Read more: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.atech.2023.100283 (Open access)

Spatially differentiated nitrogen supply is key in a global food–fertilizer price crisis.

In this article, the authors inform us that a regional geopolitical conflict and sudden, massive supply disruptions have revealed the vulnerabilities of our global link between fuels, fertilisers and food. With soaring nitrogen (N) fertiliser prices threatening food security, differentiated responses are needed to maintain staple grain yields in over- and under-fertilised farming systems. In this article, they propose some solutions that could help resolve this situation.

Read more: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41893-023-01166-w (Open access)

Inorganic fertilizer use and its association with rice yield gaps in sub-Saharan Africa

This study addresses the issue of inorganic fertilizer use by assessing spatial variation in fertilizer use and its association with rice yield and yield gap in 24 SSA countries through a systematic literature review of peer-reviewed articles, theses and grey literature published between 1995 and 2021. The results showed a large variation in N, P and K fertiliser application rates and rice yield and an opportunity to reduce the yield gap by increasing N and P rates, particularly in irrigated rice systems.

Read more : https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gfs.2023.100708 (Open access)

Deep Learning Enables Instant and Versatile Estimation of Rice Yield Using Ground-Based RGB Images

In this study, the authors present an approach based on deep learning for instantaneous estimation of rice yield using red-green-blue images. A convolutional neural network applied to this data at harvest time predicted a 68% variation in yield with a relative root mean square error of 0.22. The model developed successfully detected genotypic differences and the impact of agronomic interventions on yield in the independent data set.

Read more: https://doi.org/10.34133/ plantphenomics.0073 (Open access)

Analysis of the factors influencing the adoption of digital extension services: evidence from the RiceAdvice application in Nigeria

This study evaluates the new digital extension services approach to long-term adoption of digital extension technologies. Ten business profiles were tested with a sample size of 1440 farmers. Using the RiceAdvice as case study, the researchers used choice experiment and the alternative-specific mixed logit model to determine most preferred business profile and analyze its determinants. The study revealed an indirect approach to the long-term adoption of digital extension technologies as most suitable for small holder farmers ‘adoption.

Estimating nutrient concentrations and uptake in rice grain in sub-Saharan Africa using linear mixed-effects regression

This article shows how important it is for sub-Saharan Africa to have an accurate estimate of nutrient concentrations without resorting to laboratory analysis of plants, as farmers generally do not have access to laboratories. They show that quantifying nutrient concentrations in rice grains is essential for assessing nutrient uptake, utilization efficiency and balance for develop fertilizer recommendations. The results suggest that estimates of macronutrient and micronutrient intake in rice grain can be obtained simply by using regionally averaged concentrations of each nutrient for sub-Saharan Africa.

Indigenous nutrient supply, weeding and fertilisation strategies influence on‑farm N, P and K use efficiency in lowland rice

This article explains how improving the efficiency of applied fertilizer use increases farmers' return on fertilizer investment by reducing nutrient inputs and improving yields. The results showed that the supply of native nutrients in the absence of fertilization varied considerably from one farmer's field to another within the same irrigation system. Utilization efficiency of applied nutrients decreased with increasing native nutrient supply, indicating that a site-specific fertilizer recommendation is needed based on the levels of native nutrient supply in each farmer's field.

Read more: https://link.springer.com/10.1007/s10705-023-10275-z (Open access)

Assessing the biophysical factors affecting irrigation performance in rice cultivation using remote sensing derived information

This study shows that identifying the biophysical factors that affect the performance of irrigated crops under semi-arid conditions is essential to the success of profitable and sustainable agriculture under variable climatic conditions. The results indicate that improving the performance of irrigated rice in the Kou Valley irrigation system would require growing more rice at lower altitudes (e.g. < 300 m above sea level) and closer to the system's water intake, in conjunction with good management of nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus through fertilization.

Rice developmental stages modulate rhizosphere bacteria and archaea cooccurrence and sensitivity to long-term inorganic fertilization in a West African Sahelian agro-ecosystem

This study provides new insights into the co-occurrence of rhizosphere bacteria and archaea and the long-term impact of inorganic fertilization on these communities across developmental stages of field-grown rice. The long-term impact of inorganic fertilization on these communities across the developmental stages of field-grown rice could help to develop strategies to successfully manipulate microbial communities to improve rice yields

Read more: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40793-023-00500-1 (Open access)

The adoption and impacts of improved parboiling technology for rice value chain upgrading on the livelihood of women rice parboilers in Benin.

This study assesses the impact of the improved GEM parboiling system on the livelihoods of women rice parboilers and the factors affecting adoption of the GEM system, and estimates its impact on income, production rates and food security in Benin. In general, the results indicate that supporting and promoting the training of women parboilers in GEM and contact with extension agents is a means of increasing adoption and access to the technology and, consequently, improving their livelihoods.

Uptake and income distribution effects of targeted farm technologies on rice farmers in forest and Guinea Savannah Zones of Ghana: Does gender matter?

This study examines the role of gender in income distribution among rice farmers in rural Ghana. The study used a two-stage BFG model, using primary data collected from rice farmers. The results show that gender, land ownership and childcare negatively influence women's use of inorganic fertilizer and also show that gender (women), childcare and location (where women have limited access to land) have a significant and inverse influence on inorganic fertilizer use.

Read More : https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jafr.2023.100516 (Open access)

Consumer preferences for rice in East Africa

This article aims to understand consumer preferences for rice quality attributes in Uganda and Kenya. The method consisted of collecting rice samples from retail markets in different districts/towns in the two countries and analyzing them in a grain quality laboratory to determine the physico-chemical characteristics of rice. The result is that Ugandan consumers are willing to pay a premium for rice with a relatively high proportion of intact grains, but ignore white grains.

Exploring Gender Differences in the Role of Trait Preferences among Stakeholders in the Rice Value Chain in Ghana

This paper examines gender-specific rice trait preferences and their role in the adoption of improved rice varieties among male and female rice farmers in Ghana. Four hundred rice-farming households and 261 consumers were surveyed in 20 communities using a simple random sampling technique. The results show differences in preferences for cooking quality traits and postharvest traits among men and women farmers

Read More : https://doi.org/10.3390/su15076026 (Open access)

Gender and access to complex and gender-biased agricultural technology information and knowledge: Evidence from smart-valleys in West Africa

This paper identifies some ways to effectively transfer complex and gender-biased technology information and knowledge (TIK) to both men and women by analyzing the diffusion of Smart-valleys technology in West-Africa. ANOVA and Fisher’s exact tests were applied to data collected from 1120 lowland rice farmers in West Africa. Results confirm the general gender inequality in TIK communication.

Effects of mid-season drainage on iron toxicity, rice yield, and water productivity in irrigated systems in the derived savannah agroecological zone of West Africa

In this paper, authors evaluated farmers' local strategies for adapting to water scarcity in dry climatic zones of West Africa, as a necessary foundation for co-designing adaptive technologies that are more efficient than farmers' existing strategies.

Farmers’ perception and management of water scarcity in irrigated rice‑based systems in dry climatic zones of West Africa

In this article, authors developed a mid-season drainage technology to reduce iron toxicity and increase rice yield and water productivity and the suitable domains for its application. This is a significant contribution to increasing rice yield in iron-toxicity-affected rice fields in Africa, which cover 897,000 ha.

Read More : https://doi.org/10.1007/s13593-023-00878-9 (Open access)

The individual empowerment Index (IEI): A new approach for empowerment measures

This paper contributes to the growing literature on empowerment by proposing a new survey-based, multi-domain empowerment measurement tool, the Individual Empowerment Index (IEI). Results from applying the IEI approach to data collected show that Female farmers have less control over their lives and are less empowered than male farmers. The new IEI is a suitable tool and is recommended for quantitative and rigorous impact assessment and monitoring of programs and projects empowerment indicators.

qSUB2: A novel QTL with positive epistasis with SUB1 locus enhances submergence tolerance in rice

In this article, Genetic control of submergence tolerance was studied in an African landrace of moderately submergence tolerant rice 'TOS6454. A total of 57 lines carrying both qSUB2 and qSUB9 alleles were superior to all other lines in submergence tolerance.Pyramiding qSUB2 with the SUB1 gene locus is expected to further improve submergence tolerance in elite rice varieties.

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