How China's technology is powering Chad's rice revolution

Chad, where rice is a crucial staple for food security, long struggled with low rice yields due to outdated farming techniques and a harsh climate.

The country was forced to import significant quantities of rice, and yet still faced threats of famine. This situation began to change when China’s Agricultural Technical Assistance Mission (MATACT) was launched in Chad in 2006.

Chinese experts introduced high-quality rice varieties and modern irrigation systems.

As part of the initiative, local farmers received modern equipment, including rice transplanters and harvesters. This introduction of mechanised harvesting was instrumental in impressing and empowering local farmers, shifting them toward more efficient practices.

The mission's success is quantifiable: over 600,000 hectares of improved rice seeds have since been planted. This effort is underpinned by China’s stated focus on equal partnerships, knowledge sharing, and training local farmers, setting the stage for a sustainable transformation in Chad's agricultural sector.

The Chinese assistance program has delivered substantial results, making a real impact on Chad’s food supply. More than ten new rice varieties have been developed, with three currently awaiting national listing.

A key indicator of success is the boost in productivity: Chinese rice yields now exceed local ones by over 35%.