Abstract

Complete data on the production, marketing and consumption of certain food grains in the Ivory Coast are not available. In order to create an effective strategy for maize, millet and sorghum production, a detailed microeconomic study will be carried out on the cost, price structure and production levels of these three grains in the northern region of the Ivory Coast. A comprehensive data collection scheme will allow researchers to discover why farmers cultivate certain quantities of these grains. It will also analyze the different elements of governmental policy which have an effect on economic behaviour, and will recommend a sound strategy for food production in the region.

Post-Project Summary

The study focused on a sample of 120 production units in eight villages representing the three ecological zones and the various production techniques that were found in the administrative department of Korhogo. Linear programming was used to highlight the new constraints impacting on production and consumption. The study revealed that rice was being substituted for millet both in production and in consumption; this was due in large part to the introduction of cotton. The need to produce cotton as a cash crop led farmers to ensure the security of their food supplies by growing the cereal crop with the highest yield, i.e., rice. The objective of the government program was to make rice a cash crop, with the intention of providing a food supply for urban consumption. However, peasants achieved only small marketable surpluses. Recommendations with respect to improving maize production and distribution were made.

Recipient Institution(s)