Orange Citrus Fruit ( Photo : DailyMikeyAfton)
Oranges (Citrus × sinensis) are vibrant citrus fruits known for their juicy and sweet-tart flavor. They belong to the Rutaceae family and are widely consumed both fresh and as a source of juice. Oranges are rich in vitamin C, dietary fiber, and various beneficial plant compounds.
1. Egypt : Egypt leads the pack as one of the largest orange producers in the world. With a production of 3,000,000 tonnes in 2021, its oranges are favored for their sweetness and are often enjoyed fresh or as freshly squeezed juice.
2. South Africa : South Africa boasts a substantial orange production of 1,612,170 tonnes in 2021. Its diverse climate zones allow for the cultivation of different orange varieties, contributing to the country's significant role in the orange market.
3. Algeria : With a production of 1,137,191 tonnes in 2021, Algeria's oranges contribute significantly to both its agricultural sector and economy. The country's climate is conducive to orange cultivation.
4. Morocco : Morocco produced 1,039,382 tonnes of oranges in 2021. Its oranges, including the popular Valencia variety, are sought after for their quality and taste.
5. Ghana : Ghana's orange production reached 696,363.54 tonnes in 2021. While not as high as some other countries, its contribution to the African orange market is noteworthy.
6. Tanzania : With an orange production of 524,879.12 tonnes in 2021, Tanzania plays a role in supplying oranges to both domestic and international markets.
7. Tunisia : Tunisia produced 410,000 tonnes of oranges in 2021. The country's Mediterranean climate allows for the cultivation of citrus fruits, including oranges.
8. Mali : Mali's orange production reached 385,013 tonnes in 2021. The country's oranges are cultivated across its varied climatic regions.
9. Sudan : Sudan contributed 176,285.23 tonnes of oranges in 2021. Its oranges are grown in favorable conditions and contribute to local consumption and trade.
10. Democratic Republic of the Congo : With a production of 167,405.83 tonnes in 2021, the Democratic Republic of the Congo rounds off the list of top orange producers in Africa. Its oranges are part of the diverse agricultural landscape of the country.
These figures provide insight into the major contributors to orange production in Africa for the year 2021.