Top Chillies and peppers producers in Africa

Chillies and peppers, often referred to as capsicums, are essential components of many cuisines worldwide. They belong to the genus Capsicum and come in various shapes, sizes, and heat levels, from the mild bell pepper to the fiery habanero. Rich in vitamins A and C, these vegetables add flavor, color, and nutritional value to dishes.

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Here's the list of the top chillies and peppers producers in Africa for the year 2022 based on the FAO figures:

In Africa, the production of chillies and peppers has seen significant growth. In 2022, the continent produced a total of 3,507,994.07 tonnes. 

1. Nigeria

   • Production: 770,683.78 tonnes
   • Nigeria leads the continent in chilli and pepper production. The country's diverse climate allows for year-round cultivation, making it a significant player in the African spice market.

2. Egypt

   • Production: 681,149.13 tonnes
   • Egypt's favourable agricultural conditions and advanced farming techniques contribute to its high production levels. The country is a major exporter of peppers to European and Middle Eastern markets.

3. Algeria

   • Production: 486,636.17 tonnes
   • Algeria's pepper production is bolstered by its suitable climate and increasing investment in agricultural technology, enabling it to maintain a robust output.

4. Tunisia

   • Production: 425,000 tonnes
   • Tunisia's production is supported by its well-established agricultural sector and a strong tradition of using chillies and peppers in local cuisine, particularly in the famous harissa paste.

5. Morocco

   • Production: 273,609 tonnes
   • Morocco's agricultural sector benefits from a combination of modern practices and traditional knowledge, allowing it to sustain substantial production levels of peppers.

6. Niger

   • Production: 271,078.26 tonnes
   • Niger's chilli and pepper production has been growing steadily, supported by efforts to improve agricultural practices and increase productivity.

7. Benin

   • Production: 133,411.51 tonnes
   • Benin is an emerging producer, with a focus on increasing its output through better farming techniques and infrastructure improvements.

8. Ghana

   • Production: 119,599.39 tonnes
   • Ghana's production is driven by both local consumption and export demands, with chillies and peppers playing a crucial role in the country's culinary traditions.

9. Ethiopia

   • Production: 59,558.21 tonnes
   • Ethiopia's diverse agro-ecological zones support the cultivation of various pepper varieties, contributing to its position in the top 10.

10. Sierra Leone

    • Production: 59,216.79 tonnes
    • Sierra Leone's chilli and pepper production is gradually increasing, with efforts to enhance agricultural practices and market access.

The growing production of chillies and peppers in these countries highlights the importance of these crops in African agriculture. They not only contribute to food security and nutrition but also play a significant role in the economies of these nations.

These figures showcase the chillies and peppers production across various African countries in the year 2022.