Towards a green revolution in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

In this volume we have seen evidence that existing newer varieties of rice and maize can be and have been successful, and that there is great scope for additional transfers and adaptations of technology from Asia, particularly in lowland rice production. Even though improved technologies are required to drive any green revolution, lessons from the chapters also indicate that technologies alone are not enough. They must be supported by working systems of input and product markets as well as credit markets that provide both the means for farmers to exploit new technologies and also the economic incentive to do so. Also needed is the effective extension system that brings new productive knowledge to farmers. These findings provide useful contexts for identifying important constraints and testing why they are not being overcome through induced innovation or government intervention in sub-Saharan Africa.