#Sustainableagriculture

[social-activist2024]

India's Green Revolution: A New Chapter

While the original Green Revolution transformed India's agriculture in the 20th century, a new wave of sustainable practices is taking shape. Today, farmers are embracing organic farming, agroforestry, and precision agriculture to address environmental concerns and ensure food security. 🌱🌾

Key trends include:

Organic Farming: A growing number of farmers are opting for organic methods, reducing chemical inputs and promoting biodiversity.

Agroforestry: Integrating trees with crops helps conserve soil, improve water retention, and provide shade, benefiting both yields and ecosystems.

Precision Agriculture: Using technology to optimize resource use, farmers can tailor inputs to specific field conditions, reducing waste and increasing efficiency.

These initiatives not only enhance agricultural productivity but also contribute to climate resilience and rural livelihoods. As India continues to lead the way in sustainable agriculture, the future of farming looks greener than ever!

[mitroagrocommunications]

[agoverse]

Blockchain in Agriculture and Food Supply Chain Market Forecast Suggests Sustained Growth Throughout the Forecast until 2029

The blockchain in Agriculture and food supply chain market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 43.76% from 2023 to 2029. This growth is being driven by a number of factors, including the increasing demand for food safety and traceability, the growing popularity of smart contracts, and the increasing adoption of blockchain by governments and businesses.

Blockchain is a distributed ledger technology that can be used to record transactions in a secure and transparent way. This makes it ideal for tracking food products from farm to fork, as it can help to ensure that they are safe and have been produced sustainably.

Smart contracts are self-executing contracts that are stored on the blockchain. These contracts can be used to automate payments and transactions in the food supply chain, which can help to reduce costs and improve efficiency.

Governments and businesses are increasingly recognizing the potential benefits of blockchain, and are starting to adopt it in their supply chains. For example, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is currently working on a blockchain pilot program to track the movement of food through the supply chain.

The growth of the blockchain in agriculture and food supply chain market is expected to create new opportunities for businesses. These businesses will need to develop blockchain-based solutions that can help to improve food safety, traceability, and efficiency.

The following are some of the benefits of using blockchain in the agriculture and food supply chain:

Improved food safety: Blockchain can help to track food from farm to fork, which can help to ensure that it is safe and has been produced sustainably. This is because blockchain is a tamper-proof ledger that records all transactions in chronological order. This makes it very difficult to counterfeit or adulterate food products. Increased traceability: Blockchain can help to track the movement of food through the supply chain, which can help to improve traceability. This is important for both consumers and businesses, as it allows them to know exactly where their food comes from. Reduced costs: Blockchain can help to reduce costs in the food supply chain by automating payments and transactions. This is because smart contracts can be used to automate these processes, which can save time and money. Improved efficiency: Blockchain can help to improve efficiency in the food supply chain by streamlining processes and reducing paperwork. This can help to speed up the movement of food through the supply chain, which can lead to increased profits. Overall, the blockchain in agriculture and food supply chain market is a promising market with a lot of potential. As the market matures, we can expect to see even more innovative applications of blockchain in this sector.

Here are some of the challenges that the blockchain in agriculture and food supply chain market faces:

The lack of standardization: There is currently no single standard for blockchain in the agriculture and food supply chain market. This can make it difficult for businesses to adopt blockchain and for different systems to interoperate. The lack of trust: Some businesses and consumers may be hesitant to adopt blockchain because they do not trust the technology. This is because blockchain is a relatively new technology, and there is still some uncertainty about how it will be used in the future. The high cost: The cost of developing and deploying blockchain solutions can be high. This can be a barrier for some businesses, especially small businesses.

Despite these challenges, the blockchain in agriculture and food supply chain market is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. The market is expected to be driven by the increasing demand for food safety and traceability, the growing popularity of smart contracts, and the increasing adoption of blockchain by governments and businesses.

[thxnews]

NIA-10 Implements "Green Tech" to Boost Farming in N. Mindanao

  CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - The National Irrigation Administration in Northern Mindanao (NIA-10) has taken a significant step towards sustainable farming by adopting "green technology" in four areas of the region. The initiative aims to support farmers and enhance their productivity.  

Solar Pumps Installed: Saving Costs for Rice Farmers

In an interview on Thursday, NIA-10 Manager Elpidio Lucernas Jr. revealed that solar pumps have been installed this year in the towns of Balingasag and Alubijid, both located in Misamis Oriental, as well as in Lala town in Lanao del Norte and Barangay Pagalungan in Cagayan de Oro City. These solar pumps offer a major advantage to rice farmers in these areas, as they can now save at least 50 percent on their electricity bills compared to their previous billing statements from electric providers.  

Additional Irrigation Projects Set for Implementation

Lucernas, who manages the Irrigation Management Office of the four provinces in Region 10, excluding Bukidnon, also announced that additional irrigation projects worth PHP20 million are scheduled for implementation before the end of this year. These projects will be carried out in the towns of Balingasag and Maranding in Lanao del Norte and Tangub City in Misamis Occidental. The aim is to further enhance irrigation facilities in these areas, providing vital support to local farmers.  

Challenges in Misamis Oriental: Insufficient Irrigation Coverage

While highlighting the progress made, Lucernas emphasized that NIA-10 is committed to improving its service area in Misamis Oriental. Currently, only 18.3 percent of the land in the region is irrigated, falling short of the necessary coverage for achieving rice sufficiency and providing cheaper rice prices.  

Expanding Irrigation Coverage: A Critical Step

Lucernas explained that the current irrigation rate covers approximately 2,114 hectares of farmland out of the 5,000-hectare service area, resulting in a yield of only 3,910 kilograms per hectare. To achieve rice sufficiency in Misamis Oriental, it is crucial to expand the irrigated land area. However, the process of irrigation development is still underway.  

Project Implementation Speeds Up

To address these challenges, NIA-10 is expediting its project implementation, which has already reached 90 percent completion for cycle 2022. This proactive approach will help accelerate the region's progress towards achieving a more efficient and sustainable irrigation system.  

Promoting a Sustainable Future for Northern Mindanao

As NIA-10 continues to prioritize the adoption of green technology and expand its irrigation projects, the prospects for enhanced farming productivity and improved rice sufficiency in Northern Mindanao are expected to grow. The sustainable initiatives undertaken by NIA-10 are not only crucial for the region's agricultural sector but also for promoting a greener and more environmentally conscious future.   Sources: THX News & Philippine News Agency. Read the full article

[zianaint]

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[perspectiveunbound]

Towards a Sustainable Future: Balancing Growth and Responsibility in Scotland

Sustainable Development: Balancing Growth and Responsibility in Scotland Hello, dear readers! Today on "Perspectives Unbound," we delve into the concept of sustainable development and its critical importance for the future of Scotland. As we face pressing challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, and economic inequality, the need for a balanced approach to growth has never been more urgent. Sustainable development is not just about environmental stewardship; it encompasses social equity and economic viability as well. For Scotland, a nation with natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, prioritising sustainability is essential not only to preserve our environment but also to ensure a prosperous future for all citizens. At the heart of sustainable development lies the concept of the triple bottom line: people, planet, and profit. Businesses and policymakers must consider the impact of their actions on society and the environment alongside financial outcomes. When we shift our focus from short-term gains to long-term sustainability, we create a framework that supports resilient communities and ecosystems. One of the key areas where we can make significant strides in sustainable development is in energy production. Scotland has some of the largest renewable energy resources in Europe, particularly in wind and hydroelectric power. By investing in and expanding renewable energy projects, we can not only reduce our carbon footprint but also create jobs and stimulate local economies. Transitioning to a green energy economy presents an opportunity for Scotland to become a leader in innovation and sustainability on the global stage. Furthermore, sustainable agriculture must also be a priority. Encouraging local farming practices that prioritise ecological balance can significantly contribute to food security while minimising the impact on our environment. Supporting initiatives that promote organic farming, agroforestry, and community-supported agriculture can strengthen local food systems and foster deeper connections between consumers and producers. However, to effectively embrace sustainable development, we must engage citizens in this journey. Public awareness and education play a vital role in driving change. By fostering a culture of sustainability in our communities, we empower individuals to make informed choices that support sustainable practices in their daily lives. Lastly, inclusivity is paramount. Ensuring that all voices are heard and considered in discussions around sustainable development is essential for creating equitable solutions. Addressing the needs of the most vulnerable in our society ensures that everyone can benefit from sustainable growth, leading to a more just and cohesive society. In conclusion, sustainable development is a pathway toward a thriving future for Scotland. By prioritising ecological health, social responsibility, and economic viability, we can create resilient communities that are well-prepared for the challenges ahead. Thank you for joining today’s exploration of sustainable development and its vital importance for Scotland’s future. Together, let's foster an inclusive dialogue on how we can build a more sustainable and prosperous nation. Warm regards, Alastair Majury *Perspectives Unbound* --- *Stay tuned for more insights on how sustainable practices shape our narratives on freedom, responsibility, and growth in Scotland and beyond.*

[vatshalgreen]

Why Organic Farming Helps the Planet

🌍 Organic Farming: Saving the Planet

Organic farming practices are eco-friendly 🌱:

✅ Soil Health: Organic farming promotes soil fertility and biodiversity. ✅ Water Conservation: Reduced pesticide runoff protects our water. ✅ Climate Resilience: Organic practices help mitigate climate change.

It’s time to make a sustainable choice for the Earth 🌎.

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[adalidda]

Strengthening African Smallholder Farmers through Cooperative Power and Collective Action

Africa’s agricultural sector is a cornerstone of the continent’s economy, employing over 60% of its population and contributing significantly to food security and livelihoods. Yet, smallholder farmers, who form the backbone of this sector, face immense challenges. Limited access to resources, unpredictable markets, climate change, and isolation often leave them trapped in cycles of poverty and food insecurity. However, amidst these challenges lies a transformative solution: farmer cooperatives. By uniting their efforts, smallholder farmers can amplify their voices, share resources, and access opportunities that were once out of reach. This article explores how cooperatives are empowering African farmers, fostering resilience, and driving sustainable development across the continent.

Collective Bargaining Muscle 

Smallholder farmers often find themselves at a disadvantage when negotiating with large suppliers or buyers. Alone, their bargaining power is minimal, but together, they become a formidable force. Cooperatives enable farmers to pool their resources and negotiate better prices for inputs like seeds, fertilizers, and equipment, as well as secure fairer prices for their produce. 

The Femmes Vaillantes cooperative in Togo exemplifies this power. By uniting hundreds of women rice farmers, the cooperative negotiated bulk discounts on high-quality seeds and fertilizers, significantly reducing costs. This collective effort not only improved yields but also allowed the cooperative to secure premium prices for their rice in larger markets. The result? Higher incomes for each member and a stronger foothold in the agricultural value chain. 

This experience highlights a critical lesson: unity is strength. Farmers who collaborate can challenge the status quo, break free from exploitative practices, and create a more equitable agricultural system. 

Knowledge & Resource Sharing: Building Capacity Together 

One of the most significant advantages of cooperatives is the opportunity for knowledge exchange. Farming is a complex and ever-evolving practice, and smallholder farmers often lack access to the latest techniques, technologies, and innovations. Cooperatives provide a platform for farmers to learn from one another, share best practices, and adopt new methods that improve productivity and sustainability. 

In Ethiopia, the Nuru Ethiopia project has demonstrated the transformative power of knowledge sharing. By forming cooperatives, smallholder farmers receive training on improved farming techniques, soil conservation, and water management. These practices are then disseminated within the cooperative, creating a ripple effect of innovation and skill development. Farmers who once struggled with low yields are now equipped with the tools and knowledge to thrive. 

This collaborative approach also fosters a culture of continuous learning. Farmers are encouraged to experiment, adapt, and refine their practices, ensuring that the cooperative remains dynamic and resilient in the face of changing conditions. 

Market Access & Financial Strength: Breaking Barriers 

Access to markets and financial services is a persistent challenge for smallholder farmers. Individually, they often lack the volume or connections to reach lucrative markets or secure loans from formal financial institutions. Cooperatives, however, can aggregate produce, meet the demands of larger buyers, and negotiate favorable terms. 

The Kenyan Abossi cooperative is a testament to this potential. By joining forces, iron bean farmers were able to access contracts with buyers interested in biofortified crops, which command higher prices. Additionally, the cooperative’s collective strength enabled them to secure microloans, which they used to invest in better storage facilities and processing equipment. These investments not only improved the quality of their produce but also increased their profitability. 

This experience underscores the importance of financial inclusion and market access. Cooperatives can serve as a bridge, connecting farmers to opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach. 

Marketing, Sales, and Agri-Cooperatives: Partnering with Agribusiness Exporters for Global Reach 

One of the most transformative opportunities for agricultural cooperatives lies in their ability to access global markets. By partnering with agribusiness exporters, cooperatives can tap into international demand for high-quality agricultural products, creating new revenue streams and elevating their economic impact. 

For example, the Ghanaian cooperative Kuapa Kokoo, which produces cocoa, has successfully partnered with international chocolate companies like Divine Chocolate. Through this partnership, Kuapa Kokoo not only secures fair prices for its members but also gains access to premium markets in Europe and North America. This collaboration has enabled the cooperative to invest in community development projects, such as schools and healthcare facilities, further enhancing the well-being of its members. 

Similarly, in Senegal, the Union des Groupements de Producteurs de Cashew (UGPC) has partnered with global nut processors to export cashew nuts to international markets. By meeting stringent quality standards and leveraging the cooperative’s collective production capacity, UGPC has secured long-term contracts that provide stable incomes for its members. 

These examples highlight the importance of building strong relationships with agribusiness exporters. Cooperatives must focus on improving product quality, meeting international standards, and developing branding and marketing strategies that appeal to global consumers. Training programs on post-harvest handling, packaging, and certification can further enhance the competitiveness of cooperatives in the global market. 

Resilience in the Face of Challenges: Weathering the Storm Together 

Climate change, pests, and market volatility pose significant threats to smallholder farmers. Individually, these challenges can be devastating, but cooperatives provide a safety net. By pooling resources and sharing risks, farmers can better withstand shocks and recover more quickly from setbacks. 

The Wamuguyu Banana Farmers' Cooperative in Uganda faced a severe crisis when a wilt disease devastated their banana crops. However, through their cooperative structure, they accessed training on disease prevention and resistant varieties. They also secured financial assistance to replace lost crops, ensuring the survival of their livelihoods. This collective action not only saved the cooperative but also strengthened its members’ resilience for future challenges. 

This example highlights the importance of solidarity in times of crisis. Cooperatives enable farmers to face adversity with confidence, knowing they are not alone. 

Empowering Communities: A Ripple Effect of Change 

Cooperatives are more than just economic entities; they are catalysts for social transformation. By fostering a sense of community and shared purpose, they empower marginalized groups, create jobs, and inspire future generations. 

In Rwanda, the Koperative Y'Abahinzi b'Icyayi (KOAB) cooperative, led entirely by women, has become a beacon of hope. Beyond improving agricultural productivity, KOAB provides training on financial literacy and leadership skills, empowering women to take control of their economic and social futures. The cooperative’s success has inspired other women in the region to form their own groups, creating a ripple effect of empowerment and change. 

This experience demonstrates that cooperatives are not just about farming; they are about building stronger, more inclusive communities. 

A Call to Action for a Prosperous Future 

The stories of cooperatives like Femmes Vaillantes, Nuru Ethiopia, Abossi, Wamuguyu, KOAB, Kuapa Kokoo, and UGPC illustrate the transformative power of collective action. By uniting their efforts, smallholder farmers can overcome the challenges that once seemed insurmountable. They can access better markets, share knowledge, build resilience, and create opportunities for themselves and their communities. 

The call to action is clear: if you are a smallholder farmer in Africa, consider joining or forming a cooperative. Together, you can unlock the full potential of your land, your labor, and your community. Governments, NGOs, and private sector actors must also play their part by supporting the growth and sustainability of farmer cooperatives through policies, funding, and capacity-building initiatives. 

The path to prosperity is not walked alone. By embracing the power of cooperation, African smallholder farmers can cultivate a future that is not only sustainable but also thriving. Let us unite to sow the seeds of change and reap a harvest of prosperity for generations to come. 

I hope you enjoyed reading this post and learned something new and useful from it. If you did, please share it with your friends and colleagues who might be interested in Agriculture and Agribusiness.

Mr. Kosona Chriv

Group Chief Sales and Marketing Officer

Solina / Sahel Agri-Sol Group (Ivory Coast, Senegal, Mali, Nigeria, Tanzania)

Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Deko Group (Nigeria, Cambodia)

Senior Advisor

Adalidda (India, Cambodia)

Follow me on

BlueSky https://bsky.app/profile/kosona.bsky.social

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kosona

Photo: Young African Farmers harvesting ripe pineapples (AI-generated Image)

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[heerglobalcollaborations]

How Organic Certification Can Benefit Indian Farmers and Growers

In recent years, organic farming has become a sustainable and profitable option for farmers worldwide, and India is no exception. Did you know that getting organic certification can unlock numerous benefits for Indian farmers?

✅ Access Global Markets: Export to high-demand regions like Europe, the US, and the Middle East with premium prices. ✅ Increased Demand: Boost sales locally with the rising health-conscious consumer base. ✅ Improved Soil Health: Adopt practices that preserve the land for future generations. ✅ Higher Income: Organic produce commands better prices, offering farmers financial stability. ✅ Government Support: Take advantage of subsidies and training to make the transition smoother.

As demand for organic products grows, there’s never been a better time to make the shift. 🌍✨

🔗 Read the full blog here: https://bit.ly/3DEIMVA

[smsehgalfoundation]

The ultimate solution to stubble burning: Embrace sustainable crop residue management

Discover how sustainable crop residue management enhances soil health, reduces air pollution, and empowers farmers for a better future.

[vatshalgreen]

Protect Your Crops from Pests: A Farmer’s Guide

Pests can wreak havoc on your fields, reducing yields and harming your hard work. But with the right knowledge, you can safeguard your crops and secure a better harvest. Here's a detailed guide to help Indian farmers identify and treat common pests in small plants and tree crops effectively.

🐛 Common Pests in Small Plants and Crops Small crops like rice, wheat, vegetables, and pulses often face pest attacks that reduce their productivity. Here's what you need to know:

1️⃣ Aphids

What They Do: Sap-sucking insects that weaken plants, curl leaves, and transmit diseases. Affected Crops: Vegetables, pulses, and leafy greens. Solution: Spray neem oil (5 ml/liter of water) weekly to control their spread.

2️⃣ Whiteflies

What They Do: Cause yellowing of leaves and viral infections. They leave sticky residue that attracts mold. Affected Crops: Cotton, vegetables, and fruit crops. Solution: Use sticky traps and garlic-chili sprays to repel them naturally.

3️⃣ Stem Borers

What They Do: Bore into stems, weakening plants and reducing yields. Affected Crops: Rice, maize, and sugarcane. Solution: Apply Chlorpyrifos for effective control.

4️⃣ Cutworms

What They Do: Sever plants at the base, particularly at night. Affected Crops: Tomato, cabbage, and leafy greens. Solution: Spread Bifenthrin granules around plants to prevent damage.

🌳 Common Pests in Tree Crops Tree crops like mango, guava, coconut, and citrus are valuable but often attacked by persistent pests.

1️⃣ Fruit Flies

What They Do: Lay eggs inside fruits, causing rotting and unmarketable produce. Affected Crops: Mango, guava, and citrus. Solution: Use pheromone traps and apply Malathion for control.

2️⃣ Mealybugs

What They Do: Suck sap and attract sooty mold, reducing tree health. Affected Crops: Mango, pomegranate, and guava. Solution: Spray biodegradable soap mixed with water or apply neem cake to the soil.

3️⃣ Scale Insects

What They Do: Attach to stems and leaves, weakening the tree. Affected Crops: Citrus, coconut, and cashew. Solution: Use Dimethoate spray and ensure proper pruning.

4️⃣ Bark-Eating Caterpillars

What They Do: Feed on bark, weakening the tree and reducing fruit yield. Affected Crops: Mango and cashew. Solution: Apply Chlorpyrifos around affected areas.

🌟 Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for Success Farmers, combine these strategies for the best results: ✅ Monitor Regularly: Look for early signs of pests to act before the infestation spreads. ✅ Natural Predators: Introduce ladybirds for aphids or parasitoid wasps for fruit flies. ✅ Crop Rotation: Break pest cycles by rotating crops each season. ✅ Judicious Pesticide Use: Use chemicals only as needed and follow recommended dosages.

💡 Tips for Farmers Use weather predictions to anticipate pest outbreaks. Maintain a clean field and orchard to reduce breeding grounds for pests. Educate farm workers on identifying and handling pest infestations. Keep detailed records of pest treatments for future reference.

🌿 Join the Movement for Better Farming At Vatshal Green, we are committed to helping Indian farmers protect their crops and boost yields. Let us guide you in making your farm pest-free and productive!

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[adalidda]

Unlocking Africa’s Potential: Overcoming Challenges in Exporting Dried Cassava Chips to China

The global demand for dried cassava chips has surged in recent years, driven by China’s growing need for bio-ethanol production, food products, and animal feed. This presents a golden opportunity for African cassava producers to expand their market reach and boost economic growth. Chinese manufacturers are willing to order between 50,000 to 100,000 metric tons (MT) of dried cassava chips per month, with contracts spanning 3 to 5 years. However, despite this immense potential, African exporters face significant challenges that hinder their ability to fully capitalize on this opportunity.

This article explores the key challenges African cassava producers face in exporting to China and provides actionable strategies to overcome them. By addressing these obstacles, Africa can position itself as a competitive player in the global Cassava market and unlock its vast agricultural potential.

1. Enhancing Price Competitiveness of African Dried Cassava Chips

One of the most pressing challenges for African cassava exporters is the higher cost of their product compared to competitors from Southeast Asia. The average CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) price of African dried cassava chips is around $400 per MT, while Southeast Asian suppliers offer prices as low as $320 per MT. To bridge this gap, African producers must adopt cost-reduction strategies that enhance their competitiveness.

Successful Strategies and Lessons Learned:

- Scaling Up Production: Small-scale operations are a major contributor to high production costs. By investing in large-scale production facilities or forming cassava processing cooperatives, African producers can achieve economies of scale. For example, Nigeria’s cassava value chain transformation program has demonstrated that scaling up production can reduce costs by up to 20%.

- Adopting Modern Processing Technologies: Modern machinery, such as energy-efficient dryers, can significantly lower production costs. In Ghana, the introduction of solar-powered drying technologies reduced energy costs by 30%, making their cassava chips more competitive in international markets.

- Investing in Renewable Energy: Incorporating renewable energy solutions, such as solar or biomass, for processing facilities can provide long-term cost savings. A successful case in Tanzania saw cassava processors reduce energy costs by 40% after switching to solar-powered drying systems.

2. Navigating the GACC Certification Process

Exporting agricultural products to China requires certification from the General Administration of Customs China (GACC). The complexity and slow processing time of this certification process are significant barriers for African exporters.

Successful Strategies and Lessons Learned:

- Government-to-Government Cooperation: African governments can engage in bilateral negotiations with Chinese authorities to simplify and fast-track the certification process. For instance, Togo’s Ministry of Agriculture collaborated with the Chinese Embassy to expedite GACC approvals for Togolese exporters, reducing processing times by 50%.

- Capacity Building and Training: Exporters often struggle to meet Chinese regulatory standards. Industry associations and government bodies can provide targeted training programs. In Uganda, a government-led initiative trained over 500 cassava producers on GACC requirements, resulting in a 60% increase in successful certifications.

- Certification Support Services: Establishing local certification centers or partnering with GACC-accredited agencies can streamline the process. Kenya’s collaboration with a Chinese certification agency reduced documentation errors by 80%, accelerating the approval process.

3. Reducing High Transport Costs from Africa to China

Transport costs remain a significant challenge for African exporters, despite preferential shipping rates offered by COSCO. The lengthy sea routes and limited container availability further exacerbate the problem.

Successful Strategies and Lessons Learned:

- Consolidated Shipping: Exporters can collaborate to create shared shipping containers, reducing individual costs. In West Africa, a regional exporters’ association successfully implemented a consolidated shipping model, lowering transport costs by 25%.

- Strategic Use of Transshipment Routes: Shipping via hubs like Singapore or Dubai can reduce costs by leveraging economies of scale. A Nigerian exporter reduced shipping costs by 15% by using Dubai as a transshipment hub.

- Investing in Inland Logistics: Improving rural infrastructure and using low-cost transportation alternatives, such as rail or river transport, can lower logistics costs. Ethiopia’s investment in rural road networks reduced farm-to-processing site transport costs by 30%.

4. Reducing Production Costs for Fresh Cassava Roots

The cost of producing fresh cassava roots significantly impacts the overall pricing of dried cassava chips. High labor costs, low farm productivity, and inefficient transportation systems contribute to these challenges.

Successful Strategies and Lessons Learned:

- Adopting High-Yield Cassava Varieties: Investing in agricultural research and providing farmers with access to high-yield, drought-resistant cassava varieties can increase productivity. In Malawi, the introduction of high-yield varieties increased cassava production by 40%, reducing per-unit costs.

- Improving Farm-to-Market Infrastructure: Public investment in rural road networks can drastically reduce transportation costs. Rwanda’s investment in feeder roads reduced farm-to-market transport costs by 35%.

- Strengthening Cooperative Farming Models: Cooperative farming models enable smallholder farmers to pool resources, reducing production costs. In Cameroon, cassava cooperatives reduced input costs by 20% through bulk purchasing and shared equipment.

5. Addressing Post-Harvest Losses Through Better Storage Infrastructure

Fresh cassava roots are highly perishable, and the lack of storage infrastructure results in significant post-harvest losses. Addressing this issue is critical for improving the profitability of cassava production.

Successful Strategies and Lessons Learned:

- Investing in Cassava Storage Solutions: Solar-powered cold storage and low-cost silos can extend the shelf life of cassava roots. In Mozambique, the introduction of solar-powered storage reduced post-harvest losses by 50%.

- Supporting Post-Harvest Technology Development: Collaboration with agricultural universities and research centers can lead to innovative storage solutions. In Nigeria, the adoption of fermentation techniques reduced spoilage rates by 60%.

Conclusion

The challenges of exporting African dried cassava chips to China are significant but not insurmountable. By adopting cost-reduction strategies, navigating the GACC certification process, and investing in modern storage and processing technologies, African cassava producers can enhance their competitiveness in the global market. Collaborative efforts between governments, industry stakeholders, and the private sector are essential to overcoming these challenges and tapping into the enormous demand for cassava in China.

Africa’s cassava industry has the potential to become a major player in the global market, driving economic growth and creating jobs across the continent. With the right strategies and investments, African exporters can transform challenges into opportunities and secure a prosperous future for the cassava value chain.

I hope you enjoyed reading this post and learned something new and useful from it. If you did, please share it with your friends and colleagues who might be interested in Agriculture and Agribusiness.

Mr. Kosona Chriv

Group Chief Sales and Marketing Officer

Solina / Sahel Agri-Sol Group (Ivory Coast, Senegal, Mali, Nigeria, Tanzania)

Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Deko Group (Nigeria, Cambodia)

Senior Advisor

Adalidda (India, Cambodia)

Follow me on

BlueSky https://bsky.app/profile/kosona.bsky.social

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kosona

Photo: Cut cassava (AI-generated Image)

[shivchhaya]

Tips for Using Disease-Resistant Plants in Agriculture

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