Africa is a continent of rich agricultural diversity. From lush highlands to dry savannas, African farmers grow over 92 types of crops—ranging from cereals and legumes to fruits, vegetables, and oil seeds. But while the variety is vast, a handful of staple crops dominate production.
So, what’s growing the most—and why? Let’s take a look at Africa’s most produced crops and what they reveal about the continent’s food systems.
#1
Cassava (209 million tons)
Cassava is Africa’s undisputed king of crops. With over 209 million tons produced annually, it plays a crucial role in food security across Central and West Africa. It’s resilient to drought, grows in poor soils, and provides calories for millions. Whether boiled, pounded into fufu, or processed into flour, cassava is a staple that feeds both rural and urban populations.
#2
Maize (93 million tons)
Maize is grown from Ethiopia to South Africa and is a dietary mainstay for many. Beyond its role as food, maize is used for animal feed and as a raw material in various industries. Its importance to both subsistence farmers and commercial producers makes it one of the most strategic crops on the continent.
#3
Yams (87 million tons)
Particularly popular in West Africa, yams are culturally significant and economically important. In places like Nigeria and Ghana, yam festivals mark the start of harvest. Their storage potential and high market value make them a prized crop for farmers.
#4
Rice (40 million tons)
As urban populations grow and diets shift, rice consumption in Africa has skyrocketed. While Africa produces a significant amount of rice, it still imports large volumes to meet demand. Boosting local rice production is a priority for many governments and development programs aiming to reduce dependency on imports.
#5
Wheat (27 million tons)
Wheat is essential for bread, pasta, and processed foods—products that are increasingly in demand among Africa’s urban consumers. Despite growing production, Africa remains a net importer of wheat, particularly from Europe and Russia.
#6
Potatoes (27 million tons)
Yes, potatoes! Often overshadowed by other crops, potatoes are gaining popularity in East Africa and parts of Southern Africa. They’re fast-growing, calorie-dense, and increasingly used in both home cooking and fast food.
🌱 Other Notable Crops
- Beans (8M tons) – Key for protein and soil health.
- Barley (6M tons) – Used in brewing and animal feed.
- Soybeans (5M tons) – Gaining ground as a protein and oil crop.
- Sunflower (3M tons) – A vital oilseed for cooking and trade.
- Coffee (2M tons) – One of Africa’s most famous exports, especially from Ethiopia and East Africa.
🌍 What Does This Tell Us?
These crops aren’t just food—they are a mirror of African life. They reflect:
- Cultural preferences (e.g., yam festivals, cassava-based meals)
- Climatic suitability (cassava’s drought resistance, rice in wetlands)
- Market dynamics (rising demand for wheat and rice)
- Development opportunities (e.g., reducing import dependency, boosting yields)
Understanding Africa’s top crops is essential for designing agricultural policies, investing in the right value chains, and improving food systems for the future.
📊 Data Source: Our World in Data, 2022
