Title: Developing the cassava value chain in the DRC to guarantee food security
Introduction :
The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) recently launched a cassava value chain development project in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). With an investment of $6.5 million over a period of four years, this project aims to strengthen food security in the DRC by promoting the cassava sector, which is a widely consumed staple food in the country. In this article, we will explore the details of this project and its importance to the Congolese agricultural economy.
Development of the cassava value chain:
The DRC cassava value chain development project focuses on several key aspects. Firstly, it aims to promote the use of cassava flour in the baking industry. By encouraging bakers to use 10% cassava flour in bread production, the project will contribute to the creation of a local market for cassava. Additionally, it will support cassava producers by providing them with quality cuttings and helping them adopt improved cassava growing techniques.
Private sector involvement:
A particularity of this project is its emphasis on the private sector. Until now, IITA has mainly focused on agricultural research, but with this project the emphasis is on involving private sector players such as processors, bakers and small and medium enterprises (SMEs). ). By working with these stakeholders, the project aims to stimulate demand for cassava products, which will contribute to economic growth and job creation in the Congolese agricultural sector.
Impact on food security:
The cassava sector plays a crucial role in food security in the DRC, as many people depend on this crop for their daily diet. By developing the cassava value chain, the project will help reduce food imports and create intensive local production. This will make it possible to combat food insecurity more effectively and enable Congolese farmers, who represent nearly 70% of the country’s population, to escape poverty.
Conclusion :
The USAID-funded DRC Cassava Value Chain Development Project is an important initiative to strengthen food security and boost the Congolese agricultural economy. By promoting the cassava sector and encouraging the use of cassava flour in the baking industry, this project opens new opportunities for farmers, processors and bakers.. By working together, they will be able to ensure the availability of nutritious and affordable food while promoting the country’s economic development.