West Africa is at the heart of yam production, contributing over 90% to the global supply. Nigeria takes the lead as the biggest producer, followed by Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire, with the rest of the world making up less than 10%. Yams in West Africa are more than just a crop—they’re a major source of income and hold deep cultural significance.
Yam production in West Africa is crucial for food security, income, and the social fabric, impacting the lives of at least 60 million people. It also serves as a key source of foreign exchange for the government. Interestingly, Ghana leads globally in yam exports, despite being the second-largest producer after Nigeria.
For over 60% of the population, yam cultivation is the main source of livelihood, emphasizing its economic importance. Globally, yam consumption hits 18 million tons, with a significant 15 million tons coming from West Africa. The average person in the region consumes 61 kilograms of yams annually.
Yams are enjoyed in various ways—boiled, roasted, baked, or fried—contributing to their widespread popularity. Despite the challenges of high production costs, yam cultivation remains a highly profitable endeavor.
