Nigeria’s efforts to integrate High-Quality Cassava Flour (HQCF) into bread production have gained significant traction with the successful training of processors and lead trainers in the South-West region. This transformative initiative seeks to boost cassava utilisation, fortify the cassava value chain, and promote food security while reducing dependence on wheat flour.

The Cassava Bread Initiative: A Game-Changing Program

The cassava bread initiative represents a strategic approach to solving some of Nigeria’s pressing agricultural and economic challenges. The project focuses on replacing a portion of wheat flour with High-Quality Cassava Flour (HQCF) in bread production at a 20:80 blend ratio. This substitution not only reduces Nigeria’s reliance on imported wheat but also adds value to cassava production, an important staple crop for the nation.

The recent Training of Trainers (ToT) program held in Abuja marked a pivotal milestone in the project’s rollout. Conducted at Quality Bakery under the supervision of the Association of Master Bakers and Caterers of Nigeria (AMBCN), FCT Chapter, the training brought together processors, agricultural experts, and stakeholders. Key participants included:

• Cassava processors from Oyo State project clusters
• Representatives from Pacific Ring West Africa (PRWA)/GIZ
• The African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF)

Out of 200 trained processors, 10 standout individuals were selected for advanced training as lead trainers. These lead trainers will cascade their knowledge across the cassava processing community, enabling widespread adoption of cassava-based breadmaking technologies.

A Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration for Impact

The cassava bread initiative is a flagship component of the broader “Mechanization of Cassava Production and Processing in Nigeria” project. The program is being spearheaded by the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) with funding from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) under the Fund for the Promotion of Innovation in Agriculture (i4Ag).

The project is implemented through a dynamic partnership involving:

• Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH
• Agridrive Ltd.
• Clayuca Corporation

This collaborative approach ensures that expertise, innovation, and funding converge to address systemic challenges in cassava farming and processing.

Key Objectives: Tackling Cassava Value Chain Challenges

The cassava bread initiative is addressing critical bottlenecks faced by cassava farmers and processors, including:

1. Low Yields: Introduction of mechanized farming techniques and improved agronomic practices to enhance productivity.
2. Post-Harvest Losses: Deployment of modern processing technologies to reduce spoilage and inefficiency.
3. Limited Processing Capacity: Skill-building programs to empower processors with knowledge of HQCF production.
4. Market Utilization: Expanding the market for cassava flour by integrating it into breadmaking and confectioneries.

Through these targeted interventions, the project aims to enhance efficiency, increase farmer incomes, and unlock the full economic potential of cassava.

Capacity-Building at Scale: Training Farmers and Processors

Capacity-building is at the heart of this ambitious initiative. The program targets the training of 6,000 cassava farmers and 1,000 processors by 2026. A phased rollout ensures steady progress and measurable impact:

• 2024 Achievements:
  • 1,000 farmers and 200 processors trained in Oyo State.
• 2025 Goals:
  • 2,000 farmers (1,000 each in Oyo and Ogun States).
  • 300 processors (200 in Ogun and 100 in Oyo).
• 2026 Conclusion:
  • 3,000 farmers and 500 processors trained across target regions.

This structured program creates a ripple effect, where lead trainers empower communities, thereby scaling up adoption of HQCF-based bread production.

Why HQCF? The Economic and Nutritional Benefits

The integration of High-Quality Cassava Flour into bread and other confectioneries offers immense benefits for Nigeria:

1. Reduced Wheat Importation: Nigeria spends billions annually on wheat imports. By substituting wheat with cassava flour, the nation can save foreign exchange and improve its trade balance.
2. Economic Empowerment: Enhancing cassava processing creates jobs across the value chain, from farming and harvesting to processing and marketing.
3. Food Security: Cassava, a climate-resilient crop, offers a reliable food source that can withstand Nigeria’s diverse weather conditions.
4. Local Industry Growth: Increased demand for HQCF incentivizes investments in cassava farming, mechanization, and processing infrastructure.
5. Nutritional Benefits: Cassava-based flour is gluten-free, providing a healthier alternative for individuals with gluten sensitivities.

Voices from the Field: Leaders and Experts Speak

The success of the cassava bread initiative has been underscored by testimonies from key stakeholders and participants:

Dr. Abraham A. Shaibu, Lead Scientist:

“This partnership is about listening to farmers and processors. By incorporating their insights, we are developing solutions that work for them while unlocking the future potential of cassava.”

Mrs. Olayinka Kingsley, Project Coordinator:

“Empowering processors with the skills to produce HQCF not only strengthens communities but also contributes to achieving Nigeria’s food security goals.”

A Path Toward Agricultural Innovation and Food Security

Nigeria’s cassava bread initiative is more than a program; it is a testament to the nation’s commitment to agricultural innovation. By harnessing the power of cassava, this initiative tackles multiple issues:

• Strengthening food security.
• Reducing reliance on costly imports.
• Boosting local economies through job creation.
• Promoting sustainable farming and processing practices.

With plans to train thousands of farmers and processors, the cassava value chain is poised to drive inclusive growth and deliver long-term benefits for Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

Conclusion: A Sustainable Future for Nigeria’s Agriculture

The cassava bread initiative, powered by innovation and collaboration, is a beacon of hope for Nigeria’s agricultural sector. By integrating High-Quality Cassava Flour into bread production, the country is taking concrete steps toward economic empowerment, food security, and sustainable development.

With continued commitment from stakeholders, this initiative will solidify cassava’s role as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economy while creating opportunities for farmers, processors, and communities alike.