Join 10,000+ farmers mastering the System of Rice Intensification. Free video courses, downloadable guides, and community support.
The RICOWAS project (Scaling up Climate Resilient Rice Production in West Africa) is a four-year initiative (2023-2027) implemented by the Sahara and Sahel Observatory (OSS) and funded by the Adaptation Fund. It operates in 13 countries: Benin, Burkina Faso, Cote d'Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo.
Our goal is to train 153,000 rice growers in climate-smart techniques, especially the System of Rice Intensification (SRI), and indirectly benefit 1.5 million people through knowledge sharing and community networks.
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Seed sorting, raised nursery, 8-12d seedlings
Seed sorting (floaters discarded), raised bed nursery with soil/sand/compost mix. Transplant at 8-12 days, 2-leaf stage. Results in vigorous seedlings with high tillering potential.
One plant/hill, wide spacing, grid planting
Single seedling per hill, 25x25 cm grid. Reduces competition for nutrients, light, and water. Enables mechanical weeding in two directions.
Organic matter, compost, active soil biota
Apply compost, manure, crop residues (5-20 t/ha). Enhances soil structure, water retention, nutrient cycling. Supports beneficial microbes.
Alternate wetting/drying, aerated soil
Alternate flooding and drying (shallow water until cracks appear). Saves water, reduces methane, promotes root growth. Drain before harvest.
Our platform is built with farmers in mind - simple, accessible, and practical
Access courses on any phone - no smartphone required. SMS notifications available for offline farmers.
Learn moreCourses available in English, French, Swahili, Hausa, Yoruba, and more. Learn in your preferred language.
Learn moreWatch or listen - choose what works best. Download lessons for offline learning in areas with poor connectivity.
Learn moreConnect with other farmers, ask questions, share experiences, and learn from successful SRI practitioners.
Learn moreChoose from our free courses designed for farmers at every level
Click on each marker for country-specific RICOWAS activities
Expanded Training of Trainers (Nigeria) on SRI, water management, and saline soil reclamation.
Share experiences, ask questions, and grow together with farmers from across Africa.
For partnerships, training materials, or to join our farmer network.
