Niger launches second phase of subsidized rice program in Zinder

The government of Niger has officially launched the second phase of a national program to sell local rice at subsidized prices in the Zinder region. The initiative is a strategic partnership between the National Office for Hydro-Agricultural Development (ONAHA) and the Solidarity Fund for the Salvation of the Homeland (FSSP).

To address food security and protect consumer purchasing power, authorities have deployed 125 tons of rice, consisting of 5,000 bags of 25 kilograms each, to various points of sale in Zinder. The state has set prices significantly lower than standard market rates: the Bondourey L1 variety is priced at 10,500 CFA francs per bag, while the Brabous-ko L3 and Dambou varieties are available for 8,000 CFA francs per bag.

The program aims to foster agricultural self-sufficiency rather than serving solely as emergency relief. The FSSP has allocated 300 million CFA francs to purchase paddy rice directly from national farmers, funding the subsequent milling, processing, and logistics required to bring the product to market at reduced costs.