African rice (Oryza glaberrima): history and future potential

Abstract

The African species of rice (Oryza glaberrima) was cultivated long before Europeans arrived in the continent. At present, O. glaberrima is being replaced by the introduced Asian species of rice, Oryza sativa. Some West African farmers, including the Jola of southern Senegal, still grow African rice for use in ritual contexts. The two species of rice have recently been crossed, producing a promising hybrid.

Fig. 1.

Map of Lower Casamance, Senegal.

Fig. 2.

Men prepare the rice fields using the kajandu.

Fig. 3.

Jola women transplant the rice seedlings.

Fig. 4.

Young women harvesting rice.

Fig. 5.

Displaying the rice seed for exchange.