Faced with ever-increasing demand for rice, Togo is accelerating the modernisation of its rice sector, which is still hampered by shortcomings in local processing. Having long had to contend with rudimentary equipment and arduous working conditions, women processors are now embarking on a decisive turning point thanks to the introduction of appropriate technologies.
Nearly 200 women, organised into five cooperatives across the Central, Kara and Savanes regions, have recently received modern rice parboiling kits as part of the West African Food System Resilience Programme (FSRP). This equipment includes soaking tanks with capacities ranging from 800 kg to one tonne, 120-kg parboiling machines fitted with stainless steel sieves and fuelled by improved stoves, as well as drying tarpaulins. This material support is complemented by technical and entrepreneurial training designed to strengthen management capacities and improve the profitability of the activities.
The introduction of this equipment not only increases production volumes but also significantly reduces post-harvest losses and improves the quality of parboiled rice. Working conditions for women processors are also improved, with safer and less physically demanding processes.
The rice processed in this way, being more nutritious and commanding a higher market price, offers new economic opportunities, helping to increase incomes and empower beneficiaries.
The official handover of the equipment, held on 25 March 2026 in Tchamba, forms part of a national drive to modernise agriculture and promote female entrepreneurship in rural areas. This initiative highlights the strategic role of local rice processing in reducing dependence on imports and strengthening food security.
Beyond the provision of equipment, the approach adopted is based on comprehensive support, including close technical monitoring, to ensure that cooperatives sustainably adopt the technologies. On the ground, this initiative is seen as a key driver for boosting the local economy, improving people’s living conditions and strengthening the resilience of food systems.
Through this initiative, Togo is reaffirming its commitment to making the rice sector a driver of inclusive development, by placing women at the heart of agricultural transformation.
