Aliko Dangote, President and Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Limited, has emphasized the need for prioritizing food security and self-sufficiency across Africa. He highlighted the continent’s vast agricultural potential during a courtesy visit by the AfricaRice Centre at his Lagos office. Dangote stressed that with the right policies, investment, and adoption of modern technology, farmers can significantly increase their yields and returns.
Agriculture is a key pillar for sustainable development in Africa, and strengthening the sector can help address many socio-economic challenges. It is a major source of employment and income, and effective policy frameworks and technological advancements can enable the continent to achieve food security and self-sufficiency. Investing in agriculture can also unlock growth in various sectors of the economy.
Dangote’s comments come as his company, Dangote Rice Limited, has signed a landmark purchase and sale agreement with Niger Foods Security Systems and Logistics Company Limited. The agreement, worth N1.8 trillion, will ensure a steady supply of high-quality paddy rice to Dangote Rice, supporting Nigeria’s broader food security agenda. The company’s out-grower scheme aims to create employment opportunities while promoting food self-sufficiency nationwide.
Dr. Baboucarr Manneh, Director General of AfricaRice, commended Dangote’s focus on agricultural investments, describing it as a critical step towards achieving food security on the continent. He also lauded the partnership with Niger State, which has set an ambitious target of producing five million tonnes of rice over the next five years. This target has the potential to significantly impact rice self-sufficiency and food security in Africa.
The partnership between Dangote Industries and Niger State can serve as a blueprint for other states and countries across the continent. By leveraging public-private partnerships and combining government leadership with private sector expertise and investment, Africa can strengthen its agricultural ecosystem and reduce its reliance on food imports. Better management of imports is also crucial to support local farmers and strengthen domestic economies.
As Africa continues to grapple with food security challenges, the emphasis on prioritizing agriculture and self-sufficiency is timely. With the continent’s population projected to grow significantly, addressing food security concerns is critical to ensure sustainable development and economic growth. The partnership between Dangote Industries and Niger State is a step in the right direction, and its success can have far-reaching implications for Africa’s food security and economic development.
