Yam is the “king of crops” in West Africa and one of the most important energy sources for many African countries. However, cultivating and preparing it is tedious for farmers because yam is planted in mounds (30 to 50 cm high and 1 or 2 m apart). The advantage of the mound system in yam production includes loose soil conditions
The International Association of Research Scholars and Fellows (IARSAF) at IITA went on a working visit to selected national research institutes (NRIs) in Nigeria on 8-10 June. The educative tour sought to identify challenges, opportunities, and possible innovative solutions to transfer knowledge for national development. The tour also served as an opportunity to meet IITA alumni working in such institutions and get
On 11 June, IITA officially launched the Support to Women Entrepreneurship in the Agrifood Sector in Nigeria (SWEAN) project at its headquarters in Ibadan with the Ambassador of France and the Oyo State Governor. The project was awarded to Nigeria by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs (Embassy of France in Nigeria) through IITA, the implementing partner. The project seeks
IITA Director General Nteranya Sanginga has highlighted the need for state governments in Nigeria to prioritize investment in agriculture to develop and revitalize state economies. He said this in a presentation at the recent PDP Governors’ Forum, which took place in Ibadan, Oyo State. Speaking to the 12 Governors in attendance, DG Sanginga highlighted the recent partnership between Oyo State
IITA continually partners with government and private organizations, including universities, to advance agricultural activities and promote digitalization in Africa. BOWEN University has been a partner of IITA for many years, especially agricultural and capacity development programs. On a recent visit, Professor Joshua Ogunwole, Vice Chancellor, BOWEN University, accompanied by the University’s principal officers, sought to strengthen existing partnerships and identify new areas of
The World Food Forum has called for the massive involvement of youth in developing sustainable solutions to the world’s food and hunger problems. The call came during the recent Youth Transformative Challenge webinar. FAO’s Chief Economist and Scientist, Máximo Torero Cullen, told the global audience that youth have a critical role in bringing “out-of-the-box” ideas to create lasting solutions to
Africa is a major producer of several kinds of cereals like sorghum, millet, wheat, maize, and rice, yet there is a wide gap between actual and potential yields for these cereals. Total production is not keeping up with the increase in population, leading to intensifying production with more commercial inputs. However, the environmental concerns from intensified agriculture have led to
ENABLE-TAAT is supporting its beneficiaries by linking them to financial institutions that can help start-ups and existing businesses. Youth often have a challenge accessing funding and raising capital for their businesses, whether as loans or grants. Many youth begin their enterprises with their savings and support from their families or acquaintances, but such funds may not sufficiently cater to their