African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) in collaborationn with the Association of Master Bakers and Caterers of Nigeria (AMBCN) FCT Chapter has trained 1000 cassava farmers and 200 processors in Oyo State.
The group said the training was a significant step forward towards Nigeria’s push to integrate High-Quality Cassava Flour (HQCF) into bread making.
Mr Alex Abutu, Communication Officer West and Central Africa, AATF, said this in a statement on Monday in Abuja.
Abutu said the initiative was aimed at enhancing cassava utilisation and strengthen cassava value chain.
This, he said, would be achieved by equipping processors with the skills needed to produce bread and other confectioneries using a blend of HQCF and wheat flour in a 20 to 80 ratio.
He identified the training as part of the Mechanisation of Cassava Production and Processing in Nigeria project,
“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.
“Participants at the training included processors from Oyo State project clusters and representatives from Pacific Ring West Africa (PRWA)/GIZ and the AATF.
“This initiative forms part of the Mechanisation of Cassava Production and Processing in Nigeria project, spearheaded by AATF and funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ),” he said.
Abutu said the mechanisation of cassava production and processing in Nigeria seek to address critical challenges faced by cassava farmers, including low yields, high post-harvest losses and limited access to modern processing technologies.
According to him, by introducing mechanisation, digital tools and best agronomic practices, the initiative aims to enhance efficiency, improve incomes and unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s cassava value chain.
Abutu identified a robust capacity-building programme as central to the project, targeting 6,000 cassava farmers and 1,000 processors.
“In 2025, plans are in place to train 2,000 farmers specifically 1,000 each in Oyo and Ogun States and 200 processors in Ogun and 100 in Oyo.
“The programme will be concluded 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,” he said.