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Published on
17.07.25
In a compelling show of research-community collaboration, the IITA–CGIAR recently hosted its annual Cassava Farmers-Processors Outreach Program—a flagship event jointly organized by Radio IITA and the Cassava Breeding Program (CBP). The event brought together farmers, processors, researchers, and communication experts with a common goal: to transform cassava productivity through innovation, knowledge sharing, adoption of improved varieties, and value addition.
Farmers and processors from Osun, Oyo, Ogun, Ekiti, and Lagos States participated in the outreach, which was designed as a “train-the-trainer” initiative. Additional participants engaged on Facebook. This model empowers selected participants to serve as ambassadors, returning to their communities with valuable knowledge on best agronomic practices, improved cassava varieties, and value-added food products.
Dr Ismail Rabbi, Head of the IITA Cassava Breeding Unit, emphasized the program’s participatory approach. “Cassava farmers are central to our mission,” he said. “This outreach is not just about delivering innovation; it’s about listening, learning, and co-creating solutions that work in the field and for users.”