Launch of the cassava value chain development project in the DRC: food security in the spotlight
The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) recently announced the official launch of a project to develop the cassava value chain in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). . With funding of US$6.5 million over a period of four years, this project aims to guarantee food security and stimulate the local economy.
According to the Director of USAID, this investment is part of the numerous programs already put in place to combat food insecurity in the DRC. Given that cassava is a staple food for the majority of people in the country, this project is of particular importance. The objective is to develop the production of cassava-based bread flour and to encourage bakers to incorporate 10% of this flour into bread making. This approach will not only strengthen the cassava sector, but also diversify the food supply and create jobs in the agri-food sector.
The project will particularly focus on urban areas such as Kinshasa, Matadi, Bukavu, Goma and Lubumbashi, where the demand for cassava products is high. IITA will work closely with local producers to ensure the quality of cassava cuttings, as well as with processors and bakers to support them in using cassava flour in their businesses. This comprehensive value chain approach aims to ensure that all stakeholders involved benefit from technical and financial support to provide Congolese consumers with quality bread, while promoting the country’s economic development and food security.
The Minister of Agriculture, José Mpanda, welcomed the USAID initiative, stressing that it was in line with the vision of the President of the DRC, Félix Tshisekedi, aimed at lifting farmers out of poverty and reducing imports of food products. By encouraging local production of cassava and stimulating the processing and marketing of its derivatives, this project will not only contribute to improving food security, but also to strengthening the local economy and creating employment opportunities for young people and entrepreneurs in the agri-food sector.
In conclusion, the cassava value chain development project in the DRC is a promising initiative that aims to guarantee food security and stimulate the local economy. By working across the entire chain, from production to processing and marketing, IITA and USAID help diversify the food supply and create sustainable economic opportunities. Hopefully this project will serve as an inspiring example for other agricultural development initiatives in Africa.
Sources:
– https://fatshimetrie.org/blog/2023/11/02/lancement-officiel-du-projet-de-developpement-de-la-chaine-de-valeur-du-manioc-en-rdc/
– https://fatshimetrie.org/blog/2023/11/02/interview-du-director-of-lusaid-sur-le-projet-de-developpement-de-la-chaine-de-valeur-du-manioc -in-rdc/