he Islamic Organization for Food Security is thrilled to announce the "Next Generation Cassava Breeding" project, which initiative aims to modernize cassava breeding institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa, employing cutting-edge tools for efficient delivery of improved cassava varieties.
Rationale and Background:
Cassava, a vital staple for 500 million Africans, faces challenges like low productivity and poor access to improved seed. The NextGen Cassava project is part of IOFS's "Plans of Action" for strategic commodities in OIC Member States, aligning with OIC Plan of Action 2025.
Workshop/Training Details:
Date: November 28-29, 2023
Venue: To be announced
Language: English (Interpretation into French)
Objectives:
- Establish a commercially viable seed value chain.
- Increase cassava yield and release new high-yielding varieties.
- Meet industrial requirements for cassava.
Project Beneficiaries:
Cassava farmers and end-users in Sub-Saharan Africa, as well as cassava breeders, will benefit from improved varieties resistant to diseases.
Expected Outcomes:
- Improve cassava production and productivity.
- Strengthen regional collaboration on cassava breeding.
- Increase incomes for cassava growers and seed entrepreneurs.
Participants:
Representatives from government authorities, academia, universities, and research entities of OIC member states, with a focus on West Africa: Nigeria, Benin, Cote d’Ivoire, Senegal, and Togo.
Partnership:
IOFS, in collaboration with the Government of Nigeria through Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN) and National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI).
Focal Point:
For more information, please contact Mr. Abubakar Ahmad, Cassava Program Consultant at abubakar@iofs.org.kz or +2348061559188.
