Nigeria’s cassava bread initiative gains momentum

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6 months ago

NIGERIA’S push to integrate High-Quality Cassava Flour (HQCF) into breadmaking has taken a significant step forward with the recent training of trainers from the South-West region.

This initiative was aimed at enhancing cassava utilisation and strengthen the cassava value chain by equipping processors with the skills needed to produce bread and other confectioneries using a blend of HQCF and wheat flour in a 20:80 ratio.

Out of 200 trained processors, 10 were selected for advanced training as lead trainers. These individuals are now set to cascade their knowledge to others, fostering widespread adoption of the technology.

The training was conducted at Quality Bakery in Abuja by the Association of Master Bakers and Caterers of Nigeria (AMBCN), FCT Abuja Chapter.

Participants included processors from Oyo State project clusters and representatives from Pacific Ring West Africa (PRWA)/GIZ and the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF).

This initiative forms part of the “Mechanization of Cassava Production and Processing in Nigeria” project, spearheaded by AATF.

The project, funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) under the Fund for the Promotion of Innovation in Agriculture (i4Ag), was implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH in partnership with AATF, Agridrive Ltd., and Clayuca Corporation.

The project sought to address critical challenges faced by cassava farmers, including low yields, high post-harvest losses, and limited access to modern processing technologies.

By introducing mechanisation, digital tools, and best agronomic practices (GAP), the initiative aims to enhance efficiency, improve incomes, and unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s cassava value chain.

A robust capacity-building program is central to the project, targeting 6,000 cassava farmers and 1,000 processors. In 2024, the initiative trained 1,000 farmers and 200 processors in Oyo State.

In 2025, plans are in place to train 2,000 farmers (1,000 each in Oyo and Ogun States) and 300 processors (200 in Ogun and 100 in Oyo). The programme will conclude in 2026 with the training of 3,000 farmers and 500 processors, solidifying its impact across the region.

This revitalised effort underscores Nigeria’s commitment to advancing agricultural innovation and leveraging cassava as a key driver for food security and economic growth.