In the heart of Nigeria’s Anambra State, a silent revolution is unfolding, one that could reshape the cassava value chain and boost the agricultural sector’s commercial prospects. A recent study published in the Torkwase Journal of Agricultural Research has shed light on the critical role of information and communication technologies (ICT) in this transformation, and the constraints that are holding back progress.
The research, led by Abiodun Isaac Olaniyi of the National Root Crops Research Institute in Umudike, Nigeria, delves into the socioeconomic fabric of cassava value chain actors—farmers, processors, marketers, and consumers. The findings reveal a youthful demographic, with the majority of farmers aged between 21 and 40, and an interesting gender divide: while most farmers are male, the processing and marketing sectors are dominated by women.
But the study’s most compelling insights revolve around the use and constraints of ICT. Mobile phones, radios, televisions, computers, and the internet are the tools of choice for these actors. However, their effective use is hampered by a range of challenges. “Erratic power supply, poor network coverage, and the high cost of ICT facilities and internet subscription are significant constraints,” Olaniyi explains. He also highlights the lack of durable ICT infrastructure and inadequate training centers as major bottlenecks.
The commercial implications of these findings are profound. ICT can streamline operations, reduce post-harvest losses, and open up new markets for cassava products. For instance, real-time market information can help farmers negotiate better prices, while digital platforms can connect processors and marketers with a wider customer base. Moreover, ICT can facilitate access to weather information, agricultural extension services, and financial services, all of which can enhance productivity and profitability.
The study’s call for potential interventions to improve ICT access and usage resonates strongly. As Olaniyi puts it, “Improving ICT access and usage among cassava value chain actors can improve their livelihood and reduce the cost of production for sustainable agriculture.” This could translate into increased investment in the cassava value chain, job creation, and enhanced food security.
Looking ahead, this research could shape future developments in several ways. It underscores the need for targeted investments in ICT infrastructure, particularly in rural areas. It also highlights the importance of capacity building, with a focus on training cassava value chain actors to leverage ICT for their benefit. Furthermore, it calls for policy interventions to make ICT more affordable and accessible.
In the words of Olaniyi, “The future of the cassava value chain lies in harnessing the power of ICT.” As stakeholders in the agricultural sector grapple with these challenges, this study serves as a timely reminder of the transformative potential of technology and the need to address the constraints that hinder its adoption. The journey towards a digitally-enabled cassava value chain has begun, and the destination is a more prosperous and sustainable agricultural sector.