Celebrating and empowering the extraordinary women transforming Africa's rice value chain — from field to market.
The Women Rice Champions initiative, led by the Africa Rice Center (AfricaRice), identifies, celebrates, and supports outstanding women who are transforming the rice value chain across sub-Saharan Africa.
From smallholder farmers adopting improved varieties to entrepreneurs building thriving rice businesses, these women are proving that investing in women is the key to achieving rice self-sufficiency in Africa. The program spans over 25 countries and has empowered thousands of women since its inception.
Recognizing women who have made outstanding contributions to rice production, processing, and marketing across Africa.
Creating networks of women leaders who share knowledge, resources, and inspire the next generation of rice champions.
Supporting women-led innovations that increase rice productivity, improve quality, and expand market access across the continent.
These extraordinary women are transforming their communities and Africa's rice sector through innovation, determination, and leadership.
Rice Farmer & Seed Producer
Starting with just half a hectare, Aminata adopted improved rice varieties and modern techniques. Today she cultivates 15 hectares and supplies certified seeds to over 200 farmers in her region.
Processor & Entrepreneur
Grace transformed a small manual processing unit into a modern rice mill serving thousands of farmers. Her local rice brand now competes with imported varieties in major markets.
Market Leader & Trader
Fatoumata built a trading network connecting rural producers to urban markets. She organized women's cooperatives that collectively negotiate better prices.
The Women Rice Champions program has created measurable, lasting impact across Africa's rice sector.
Our comprehensive approach addresses the key barriers women face in the rice value chain, creating pathways to sustainable success.
Introducing improved rice varieties, modern cultivation techniques, and mechanized solutions to increase productivity and reduce drudgery for women farmers.
Training in agronomic practices, business management, financial literacy, and leadership skills to equip women for success at every level.
Connecting women to profitable markets, supporting value addition, branding, and collective marketing to ensure fair prices and sustainable incomes.
Nurturing women leaders who advocate for policy change, mentor emerging champions, and drive transformation across the rice sector.
Hear directly from the women whose lives have been transformed through the power of rice and community.
"Before the program, I could barely feed my family from my small rice plot. Now I produce enough to sell, and I'm training other women in my village to do the same. Rice has changed my life."
"The training in rice processing and quality control helped me build a brand that consumers trust. Today, my rice is sold in supermarkets across the capital. I employ 30 women in my mill."
"As a woman in agriculture, people doubted me. But through the Women Rice Champions network, I found mentors, partners, and the confidence to lead. Now I represent women farmers at national policy forums."
Whether you're a researcher, donor, policymaker, or aspiring champion — there's a role for you in transforming Africa's rice future.