In the heart of West Africa, cassava is more than just a crop; it’s a lifeline. For the people of Togo, this starchy tuber is a staple, a source of sustenance, and a cornerstone of food security. Yet, the humble cassava faces significant challenges that threaten its productivity and the livelihoods that depend on it. A recent study led by Tighankoumi Gmakouba of the High Institute of Agricultural Professions (ISMA), Laboratory of Agronomy and Applied Biological Sciences (LaSABA), University of Kara, sheds light on these issues, offering a roadmap for a more resilient future.
The study, published in ‘Agriculture & Food Security’, delves into the intricacies of cassava production in Togo, revealing a landscape fraught with constraints. “Inadequate capital, Cassava Mosaic Disease (CMD), post-harvest physiological deterioration (PPD), and the non-availability of clean planting materials,” are among the key challenges identified. These issues are not merely academic; they have real-world implications for the energy sector, particularly in regions where cassava is used as a feedstock for biofuels.
Cassava’s role in bioenergy is significant. It’s a versatile crop that can be converted into ethanol, a renewable fuel source. However, the low yields and disease susceptibility highlighted in the study pose a threat to the commercial viability of cassava-based biofuels. “The low adoption of improved varieties developed by the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) underscores the need for a participatory approach to research and development,” Gmakouba notes. This participatory approach is crucial for developing varieties that meet farmers’ needs and preferences, such as high yield, pest and disease resistance, and early maturity.
The study also underscores the importance of a sustainable cassava seed system. Farmers in Togo are crying out for improved varieties and clean planting materials. This is a call to action for agritech companies and researchers alike. By addressing these needs, we can enhance cassava production, ensure food security, and bolster the bioenergy sector.
The findings of this study are a clarion call for change. They highlight the need for a participatory breeding program that engages farmers at every step, from variety selection to disease management. This approach not only empowers farmers but also ensures that the resulting varieties are commercially viable and environmentally sustainable.
As we look to the future, the insights from this study could shape the development of cassava-based biofuels. By addressing the constraints identified and fostering a participatory approach, we can create a more resilient cassava sector, one that supports both food security and the energy needs of a growing population. The journey ahead is challenging, but with the right strategies and collaborations, a sustainable and prosperous future for cassava is within reach.