Africa Cassava Conference: Enugu State to Boost Cassava-Based Industrialization for Attracting Domestic and Foreign Investors


The 2023 Africa Cassava Conference converged leaders, experts, and stakeholders in a collective exploration of the vast potential held by cassava-based products in Africa and their pivotal role in the continent's industrialization drive. Notably, Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah's vision to elevate his state to the status of a cash crop export hub was brought into the spotlight during this significant conference. Presenting the comprehensive plan for this vision was Hon. Patrick Nwabueze Ubru, the Enugu State Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-industrialization.

Honorable Ubru underscored the economic importance of cassava in Enugu State and its potential to drive industrialization. He stated, "Enugu State, renowned for its substantial cassava production, is embarking on an initiative to cultivate 300,000 hectares of farmland across its 17 local government areas. This initiative aims to expand cassava production and nurture related industries, promoting sustainable agricultural practices and ensuring food security."

Furthermore, Hon. Ubru revealed, "Enugu State is also proactively establishing a land bank to simplify land acquisition for agricultural purposes, with the aim of attracting both domestic and foreign investments across the cassava value chain. This move is expected to foster industrialization and spur economic growth."

Cassava's inherent versatility and adaptability present diverse opportunities across sectors, including food, feed, energy, and textiles. Enugu State's strategy includes forging strategic partnerships with private investors to develop the cassava-to-ethanol value chain, a move that aligns with sustainability goals. The state is giving priority to value addition and agro-processing, as it sets up modern processing centers to convert cassava into high-value products, including flour, starch, ethanol, and industrial raw materials.

Central to Enugu State's approach is a steadfast commitment to quality control and adherence to international standards, with the overarching aim of bolstering consumer confidence and expanding trade and investment opportunities.

Governor Peter Mbah remains resolute in his dedication to drive Africa's industrialization through cassava-based products, recognizing cassava's immense potential as a catalyst for economic growth, poverty reduction, and sustainable development. The state extends an open invitation to all stakeholders to partake in this transformative journey.

The 2023 Africa Cassava Conference has served as a unifying force and a reminder to African leaders of the substantial potential inherent in cassava-based products. It has set the stage for a prosperous and industrially thriving future. This assembly of national, regional, and international participants promises to foster collaborations, facilitate knowledge exchange, and generate innovative solutions to propel Africa's cassava industry forward.

The Africa Cassava Conference 2023, held at the NAF Conference Center, Plot 496 Ahmadu Bello Way, Kado, Abuja, Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria, highlighted groundbreaking research, product development, and the innovative applications of cassava across various industrial domains. These efforts are poised to boost cassava production along its value chain, contributing significantly to Africa's economic development.

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