On November 2, 2026, the Governor of Zinder region, Colonel Massalatchi Mahaman Sani, officially launched the second phase of subsidized local rice sales in Zinder. This initiative aims to promote Niger's food sovereignty by encouraging the consumption of locally produced rice. A total of 125 tonnes of "Made in Niger" rice will be sold to households in the region.
The Office national des aménagements hydro-agricoles (ONAHA) plays a central role in this operation, providing 125 tonnes of rice, or 5,000 sacks of 25 kg. This rice is 100% Nigerien, cultivated by rice cooperatives on hydro-agricultural perimeters supervised by ONAHA and then processed in Riz du Niger (RINI) factories, ensuring its quality.
The operation is co-financed by the Fonds de solidarité pour la sauvegarde de la patrie (FSSP) and ONAHA. The principle is to buy paddy from producers at a fair price and then sell the rice to the population at an affordable price. This approach benefits both producers and households, securing farmers' incomes and making local rice accessible to families.
The initiative was launched on the instructions of the Head of State, General Abdourahamane Tiani. It aims to support local rice production and promote food sovereignty in Niger. The ceremony was attended by various stakeholders, including the Governor, administrators, and representatives of ONAHA, FSSP, and RINI.
The event was widely praised by attendees, who see it as a genuine act of sovereignty. Participants have committed to sustaining the operation over time. ONAHA has also called on producers to increase and improve their production, emphasizing the importance of producing, processing, and consuming local products.
This second phase of subsidized rice sales in Zinder illustrates a shared conviction: Niger's food sovereignty can be achieved by producing, processing, and consuming local products. The initiative is part of a broader effort to promote local food production and reduce reliance on imported goods.
The subsidized rice sales operation is expected to benefit 5,000 households in Zinder, providing them with affordable access to locally produced rice. This initiative is a key step towards achieving food sovereignty in Niger and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in the region.
Key points
- The Nigerien government has launched a second phase of subsidized rice sales in Zinder, aiming to promote local food production and sovereignty.
- The initiative is co-financed by the Fonds de solidarité pour la sauvegarde de la patrie (FSSP) and ONAHA, and benefits both producers and households.
- The operation is part of a broader effort to promote local food production and reduce reliance on imported goods in Niger.
