The locality of Subiakro, in the Bélier region (Yamoussoukro), was the scene of a strong gesture in favor of the food sovereignty of Côte d'Ivoire. The Minister of Planning and Development, Dr Souleymane Diarrassouba, sponsored the official handover of a large batch of agricultural inputs and equipment to rice producers in the area. The package delivered includes 40 tons of improved rice seeds, 250 tons of fertilizer, 5 tractors, 2 harvesters and 2 threshers, for a total value of 300 million CFA francs. This support will enable the cultivation of an additional 500 hectares, significantly strengthening local productive capacity. 

The mechanization of agricultural operations remains a strategic lever for sustainably improving yields and reducing the arduousness of peasant work. Already deployed in Boundiali, Daloa and Yamoussoukro, this national rice growing support program is gradually being extended to other production areas across the country. The rice sector is among the priorities of the PND 2026-2030, which aims to strengthen national food production and reduce dependence on rice imports. The dissemination of modern equipment and improved seeds constitutes, according to the government, an effective means of increasing yields per hectare.

By taking an active part in this ceremony, Dr Diarrassouba reaffirmed the Ivorian government's commitment to agricultural development on a basis of national planning. The combination of mechanization, quality inputs and technical supervision represents the roadmap for competitive national rice production, capable of covering the needs of the domestic market and sustainably limiting the use of imports.