What's Happening?
Dr. Henry Emejuo, Director-General of the Pan-African Organisation for Small and Medium Industries (PAOSMI), emphasized the importance of cassava in Africa's food security and industrial development during
the Africa Cassava Conference in Abuja. Cassava is a staple in African households and holds significant industrial value, producing materials like ethanol and high-quality cassava flour. The conference provided a platform for policymakers, scientists, and industrialists to harmonize strategies to deepen cassava utilization and unlock its economic potential. Mustafa Bakano, National President of the Nigeria Cassava Growers Association, highlighted the challenges faced by smallholder farmers, including access to finance and farming practices.
Why It's Important?
Cassava's versatility makes it indispensable for both household consumption and industrial applications, playing a crucial role in driving economic development across Africa. The conference outcomes aim to guide countries in expanding industrial use of cassava and strengthening its role in economic growth. The presence of financial institutions like the Bank of Industry offers stakeholders the opportunity to develop practical solutions for smallholder farmers. The collaboration between countries like Nigeria and South Sudan could improve food security, nutrition, and industrial growth, demonstrating cassava's potential in Africa's fourth industrial revolution.
What's Next?
The conference outcomes will guide countries on expanding industrial use of cassava and strengthening its role in driving economic development. The collaboration between countries like Nigeria and South Sudan could improve food security, nutrition, and industrial growth. Mechanized cassava production is key to transforming cassava into an engine for Africa's next phase of industrial development. The participation of seven countries demonstrates rising continental interest in cassava, and the crop should be placed at the center of Africa's fourth industrial revolution.
