Global wheat shortages push countries to self-sufficiency

Nigeria's vice-president Yemi Osinbajo says the country targets self-sufficiency in rice production by the end of 2018, saving scarce foreign exchange spent on importing the staple food.

We are close to achieving self-sufficiency in rice production - Lai Mohammed

Rwanda envisions reaching 75 per cent use of improved seeds by 2024 from 50 per cent currently. To drive that ambition, the country has signed a partnership with three firms to produce seeds locally.

We’re at war with smugglers sabotaging Nigeria’s self-sufficiency drive in rice production.

For many people, Covid-19 has triggered a yearning for change: a slower pace, a lighter footprint and an existence more connected to nature. And now – perhaps the first time – a life more resilient to future shocks. This week Down to Earth explores why the coronavirus outbreak has prompted so many people to consider a change in their production and consumption habits.

The Food and Agriculture Organisation says in the face of global crises, global solutions are needed more than ever to address food insecurity, especially for low-income countries.