Foundation calls for new approach to increase cassava yield

The African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), has noted that the continuous low yields of cassava in some cassava growing nations of Africa may confine the continent to a poor status if new a approach is not promptly embraced. It added that the continent, being the largest producer of the tuber yet with the lowest yields, […]

The African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), has noted that the continuous low yields of cassava in some cassava growing nations of Africa may confine the continent to a poor status if new a approach is not promptly embraced.
It added that the continent, being the largest producer of the tuber yet with the lowest yields, could be averted if better technology is introduced.
AATF Regional Representative, West Africa, Dr Abdourhammane Kollo, gave the admonition to participants at a training programme for tractor operators, extension agents and agricultural officers.
Kollo, who spoke recently at the National Centre for Agricultural Mechanisation (NCAM), Ilorin, noted that “Africa accounts for nearly 55 per cent of cassava growing annually which makes it the largest producer of cassava in the world, but that Africa’s yields were the lowest in the world, standing at 10-12 tons per hectare.”