Tropentag, September 18 - 20, 2019 in Kassel "Filling gaps and removing traps for sustainable resources development"

Using Cassava (Manihot esculenta) Value Chain Products in Filling Gaps for Food Security in Nigeria

¹Akwa Ibom State University, Dept. of Agricultural Economics and Extension, Nigeria
²University of Uyo, Agricultural Economics and Extension, Nigeria
³Federal College of Education (Technical), Omoku, Dept. of Agricultural Education, Nigeria

Abstract

This paper analysed the use of cassava (Manihot esculenta) value chain products to fill the food security gaps in South-South Nigeria, a region with high prevalence of poverty, hunger, malnutrition and general food insecurity. Primary data were collected from 240 respondents using a set of well structured questionnaires which were complemented by personal interview and observation to ensure accuracy and consistency of data used. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, rankings and regression analysis. Results of the analysis showed that cassava is very widely produced, accepted and consumed in various forms in the area. The common products from cassava value chain include garri, starch, tapioca, fufu, abacha and boiled cassava tubers. These engage a wide range of household members who earn income and feed from the products. The analysis further showed that garri was the highest income generating product in the value chain, followed by edible starch, tapioca, fufu and abacha, respectively. The regression result revealed that farming experience, farm size and fertiliser were significant in determining income (P<0.01) in the study area. Transportation of the bulky product was a challenge affecting 62.9% of respondents amongst other challenges. The study recommends farmers to process more of their cassava to higher income yielding products. The factors that are critical to output need to be enhanced for better outcomes, notably increasing production scale, making fertiliser available and improving road and transport infrastructure. Cassava value chain products have the potential to improve not only the household food security but making impact nationally and globally.

Keywords: Cassava, filling gaps, food security, income, value chain products

Contact Address: Damian Agom, Akwa Ibom State University, Dept. of Agricultural Economics and Extension, Obio Akpa, Nigeria, e-mail: agomdyahoo.com