BUSIA, Kenya – Some counties in Eastern Kenya, like Kitui, Makueni, and Tharaka-Nithi, have long demonstrated their ability to cultivate cassava successfully.
The region experiences semi-arid and arid weather, and cassava thrives due to its drought resistance.
Y News understands that factors such as climate, soil conditions, and altitude influence the performance of cassava crops.
While cassava is adaptable and can be grown in different agroecological zones, many women in Busia County don’t want to be left behind as they are now fast embracing its cultivation.
Like Kakamega and Bungoma counties, Busia is known for successful cassava cultivation.
Why Western Kenya thrives in cassava farming
The Western Kenya region’s favourable rainfall patterns and soil conditions contribute to cassava productivity.
After investing in commercialised cassava farming for food security and income generation, a women’s organisation in Nambale and Butula is reaping great rewards.
After establishing a cottage processing facility to grind cassava flour for baking bread, cakes, and crisps, among other snacks for both household and commercial use, they are now earning roughly Sh20,000 per week.
“We have long recognised cassava as a staple of our families’ traditional diets. Before being served with other foods, the tubers are peeled and then boiled to cook them. However, this has changed after learning about the crop’s added values, according to Julian Anyang’o of Namunene village in Nambale sub-county.
In the East African region, Kenya is the most minor producer of cassava, as Uganda produces 4 million MT while Tanzania produces 8 million MT per year. This is attributable to the need for clean planting materials, unstructured markets, weak seed systems, and a weak regulatory framework.
What are the benefits of eating cassava
Cassava is a tubercle rich in fibre that can help manage sugar and cholesterol levels in the blood. It can prevent diabetes, heart attack, and stroke and improve intestinal flow.
Nutritionist Margaret Akinyi said that due to shifting eating habits, residents, including the younger generation, are adopting foods that are seen to be healthier than processed alternatives.
“We ensure that the farmers receive training on how to process cassava for home consumption and maintain the hygienic practices and quality standards of processed cassava sold in upscale western Kenyan shops,” Akinyi explained.
In addition, cassava contains resistant starch, a type of carbohydrate that is not digested and acts similarly to fibre in the body).
It can feed the beneficial bacteria in the gut and improve digestion. It can also be ingested to prevent conditions like constipation, gastritis or intestinal cancer.
According to Eric Magero, the Agricultural Extension Officer for Bukhayo East, demonstration centres have been set up to instruct farmers on cassava production techniques and conservation, achieving food security and extra revenue.
“To add value to drought-resistant crops like cassava and ground nuts, farmers are encouraged to form groups and apply for credit facilities,” Magero said.
How the gov’t is supporting Busia cassava farmers
The government has installed sweet potato and cassava processing equipment in places like Teso South and Tanga Kona.
Farmers are also receiving preproduction and marketing training from the National Council for Science and Technology in association with the Kenya Agricultural Research Institute (KARI) and Egerton University.
However, the outbreak of a viral illness that could lower crop output threatens the farmers’ gains.
Scientists have cautioned that the growing prevalence of Cassava Brown Streak Disease (CBSD) could result in a 50pc decrease in cassava yield, which would be disastrous for farmers in Busia County and similar areas.
According to researchers at the International Centre for Tropical Agriculture, the virus has been detected in Nigeria, which produces and consumes the most cassava worldwide.
There are concerns that the illness may spread to other regions of West Africa, where 150 million people rely on the crop.
Why cassava farming is essential for Africa
According to Claude Fauquet, chairman of the Global Cassava Partnership for the 21st Century, in the ICTA report, cassava is already incredibly important for Africa. It is poised to play an even more significant role in the future.
“Which is why we need to move quickly to contain and eliminate this virus,” Claude said.
However, the National Council for Science and Technology has started a programme to teach farmers how to quickly prepare cassava and market the crop in partnership with KARI and Egerton University.
The farmers receive training in field setup, value addition, and marketing techniques in addition to cassava variety.
“Bulking plots for cassava have been established at each of the participating groups and trained on production and use of the crop for food, source of income, and fuel,” the ICTA report reads in part.
It is also recommended that farmers seek assistance from other agricultural organisations to improve the sustainability of the country’s cassava production and boost their revenue.
“The disease can appear to be in good health on infected plants, but the most valuable part of cassava is being destroyed beneath the surface. Brown streaks in the flesh of the root, which when in good condition offers a rich supply of dietary carbs and industrial starchy products, are the disease’s telltale indications,” the report further notes.
Where does Kenya stand in cassava production
According to the experts, the disease would take years to spread around the continent by whiteflies alone, but contaminated stem cuttings might start outbreaks in other areas.
However, in October 2023, it became clear that Kenya depended on importing cassava from nearby countries to satisfy the enormous local demand for the staple item.
According to Peter Aluoch, Head of Programmes at Self Help Africa, local demand for cassava increased to 3 million metric tonnes (MT) last year, less than the 946,076 MT produced under 61,592 hectares.
The tuber crop pent-up usage is linked to expanding cassava utilisation beyond human consumption into use in animal feeds and starch for industries.
“In 2020, the country produced 898,110 MT of cassava from 61,754 ha, translating to 14.54 tons/ha productivity. This is lower compared to 16 – 24 tons/ha in China, Indonesia, and Thailand,” Aluoch said.
It’s also critical to remember that overeating cassava, which is high in calories and carbohydrates, might cause weight gain.
On the other hand, cassava’s high fibre content helps you feel fuller and eat less throughout the day. Consuming in moderation can be included in a weight-loss diet plan.
Cassava should be incorporated into a healthy, balanced diet and frequently exercised to reap its benefits.
