As part of an initiative to improve farmers' access to climate-smart agriculture (CSA) technologies, Niger's Food System Resilience Programme (PRSA) has distributed 143.5 tonnes of improved seeds across 32 communes in four regions targeted by the programme. For the 2023 agricultural season, these seeds, made up of cowpea, rice and maize, have benefited 9,383 producers.
One of the beneficiaries is Mr Ousmane Sabo, a rice farmer in the commune of Zermou, in the Zinder region. He explains:
"The rice seeds supplied by PRSA-Niger enabled me to plant almost a hectare last year, increasing my production compared with previous seasons. Thanks to these seeds, I was able to produce up to 20 75kg bags of paddy rice, compared with just 4 bags previously. With a good rainy season this year, I expect to produce more from the same area. This harvest has enabled me not only to meet my family's food needs, but also to sell part of it to cover health and clothing costs.
As well as having a direct impact on production, this support from PRSA-Niger encourages the dissemination of improved practices among local growers, who are often reluctant to adopt new varieties. Mr Sabo highlights the transformation of his farm and its pioneering role:
"At first, other growers were sceptical about the effectiveness of these seeds. But after seeing the results, I'm determined to carry on."
In 2023 and 2024, PRSA-Niger distributed almost 400 tonnes of improved seeds in the programme's intervention zones, helping to strengthen agricultural resilience to climatic hazards and improve food security in the country.
