Nigeria, Egypt and Madagascar have consistently led Africa’s rice production, with Nigeria recording consistent growth in recent years

Key Takeaways

  • Nigeria's rice production hit 9.13 million tonnes in 2024, its highest level since 2021.
  • Egypt and Madagascar produced 6.43 and 4.97 million tonnes, respectively, in 2024.
  • Egypt and Madagascar combined produced 11.4 million tonnes, exceeding Nigeria's output.
  • Africa's rice production reached a record 44.8 million tonnes in 2024, up 421% since 1980.

Since 2021, Nigeria's rice production has increased every year, reaching a record 9.13 million tonnes in 2024. Egypt and Madagascar, the other two leading rice producers in Africa, have followed different trends.

Egypt's production was much higher in the 2000s, but declined sharply to 3.12 million tonnes in 2018. It has since recovered steadily, reaching 6.43 million tonnes in 2024.

Madagascar has also seen fluctuations over the years, although its overall increase has been more gradual. Production reached 4.97 million tonnes in 2024.

Together, Egypt and Madagascar produced 11.4 million tonnes of rice in 2024, more than Nigeria's 9.13 million tonnes.

Africa's rice production increased by 421% between 1980 and 2024, reaching a record 44.8 million tonnes. The three countries accounted for roughly 46% of all rice produced in Africa in 2024.

Source:

Food and Agriculture organization of the UN

Period:

1980-2024
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