This course delves into the enabling environment for agricultural investment in Africa, particularly emphasizing rice value chain cooperation. It analyses the key factors that attract investment in rice production, including African governments' political will, abundant arable land, a youthful and dynamic population, cheap labor, ample water resources, and supportive policies. By harnessing these advantages, the course underscores the potential for Africa to significantly boost rice production, thereby enhancing food security, promoting economic growth, and improving the livelihoods of farmers.

The course comes from 2024 Seminar titled “From Paddy to Prosperity: Inclusive Partnerships and Innovative Financing for China-Africa Rice Value Chain Cooperation,” which was held in 17-19 July 2024 in Chengdu, China. This policy dialogue was co-organised by WFP China COE, United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and National Food and Strategic Reserves Administration (NAFRA). Its objective is to facilitate discussions and exchange insights on China-Africa rice value chain development with a focus on fostering inclusive partnership and promoting innovative financing and investment opportunities.