The Regional Knowledge Exchange on the promotion of efficient rice farming practices and value chains in sub-Saharan Africa took place from 7 to 11 August 2017 in Elmina, Ghana. The workshop brought together over 40 participants from ten countries and technical partner institutions involved in the implementation of the regional project “Partnership for Sustainable Rice Systems Development in Sub-Saharan Africa’’ (GCP/RAF/489/VEN). The key objectives of the workshop were primarily (1) to discuss priorities and plans for continued project implementation at country and at regional level, and (2) to facilitate the regional exchange of knowledge and experiences on sustainable rice production intensification and rice value chain.

As a result of workshop discussion, a number of proposals were put forward for study tour exchanges to disseminate best practices on rice value chain development. These include exchange on seed systems, irrigation, post-harvest losses and mechanization. Study tours would be coordinated with regional and global research institutions such as Africa Rice and International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in collaboration with FAO. It is envisaged that the knowledge exchange will provide a catalyst for the dissemination of best practices in Africa along the rice value chains through the practical adoption of innovative tools and approaches to boost productivity and enhance competitiveness of African rice farmers, processors and traders.