Cassava processors in Niger State have been advised to diversify their products to include cassava chips for export, due to the current high global demand, particularly in Europe for the product.
This call was made by a cassava chips expert, Mr. Jamu Salka during a training for cassava processors organized by Value Chain Development Programme ( VCDP )and Qu-VIRO Nig Ltd, in Minna.
Salka noted that presently, there substantial global demand for cassava chips, driven by factors such as the increasing demand for gluten-free and vegan snacks, health-conscious consumers, and diverse industrial applications.
According to him, ” There is significant opportunity for growth and innovation in the cassava chip market, particularly in regions like Africa and Asia. Cassava processors”.
He emphasized that cassava chips can be used in various ways, which include snacks, animal feed, paper and textile manufacturing, and as biofuel.
Also, the Niger State Coordinator of VCDP, Hajiya Hadizat Isah, noted that the training is aimed at building the capacity of beneficiaries on producing quality cassava chips that meet international standards.
The Coordinator stated that a buyer has approached her organization requesting for 300,000 tonnes of cassava chips, prompting the need for diversification from traditional products like garri, cassava flour among others.
” As at now, we are unable to meet the request and we believe that, by diversifying to cassava chips for export, processors can tap into the global market by capitalizing on the growing demand for the product.
The initiative has the potential to boost the economy of Niger State and improve the livelihoods of cassava processors “she emphasized
Isah also explained that the Niger state has been rated high in rice production and processing among participating VDCP states in the country and would like to work towards achieving same in cassava production to boost economy of the farmers and the state. .
The participants were trained on the step-by-step production of cassava chips, including cleaning, peeling, chipping, drying, packaging and storage at the Qu-VIRO. Ltd farm along Bida-Minna road.
Speaking, some of the participants who are mostly garri and cassava flour processors expressed joy for the new knowledge acquired in producing cassava chips and promised to apply it in their businesses.
