Farmers in Nigeria give thumbs up to cassava seed system intervention

Published Mar 25, 2024

Tridge summary

In Benue State, Nigeria, cassava farmers are witnessing a significant increase in their harvests, with yields potentially exceeding 20 tons per hectare, thanks to the adoption of improved cassava varieties introduced by the Building an Economically Sustainable Integrated Cassava Seed System (BASICS-II) project. This initiative, led by the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) and supported by Sasakawa Africa Association (SAA), aims to boost cassava production by establishing Cassava Seed Entrepreneurs (CSEs) who distribute high-yielding, disease-free cassava stems. Over 50 hectares of cassava seed fields have been established in Benue and Nasarawa states, with plans for further expansion in 2024. The project's goal is not only to increase yields but also to ensure the sustainable diffusion of improved cassava varieties across Nigeria, thereby generating income and creating employment opportunities for local farmers.

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Original content

Cassava farmers in Benue State are excited over the positive outlook of their cassava fields as they anticipate high yields this harvest season; and hundreds among them taking up the business of selling improved seeds in local communities. Typically, yields in Nigeria are less than nine tons per hectare but improved varieties grown by Cassava Seed Entrepreneurs (CSEs) offer 20 tons and above, according to Sasakawa Africa Association. Farmers across the country now aim to achieve higher yields in addition to selling stems for additional income and sustainably facilitate the diffusion of varieties throughout the country. “We planted the TME 419 variety and the performance has been awesome,” said farmer Vitalis Iorlaha. “The fact that we can sell the stems and make money from roots and stems gives me a lot of joy. Honestly, this project is a life changer.” The Building an Economically Sustainable Integrated Cassava Seed System (BASICS-II) project is using a systems approach to offer ...

Source: Modernghana