The Impact of Cassava Value Chain in Rural Communities. A Case Study of Mayukwa-Yukwa Kaoma-Western Province-Zambia

Author(s): Hope Jere and Dr. T Velmurugan

Abstract:

Cassava (Manihot esculenta crantz) also known as tapioca is the second most consumed staple food in Zambia after Maize. It is a widely grown root that is cultivated and consumed in different forms varying from eating the cassava leaves as relish, making cassava meal flour from the dry tubers, eating fresh tubers as well as baking. Furthermore, it is an important source of energy. While Cassava Value Chain is a process of production and processing of the cassava into various by-products. This study sought to establish the impact of cassava value chain in rural communities of Zambia. A case study of Mayukwayukwa Western Province Kaoma District Zambia that contribute immensely to the economic, social and environmental factors of the Zambian community, through this the study further addressed itself to four major objectives. The findings included both male and female participation cassava farming for the purpose of gender inclusion. However, Limited Infrastructure in the Refugee camps has resulted in challenges that affect productivity of the cassava production. These infrastructures include transportation networks, market facilities, and bulking storage capacities, which are essential for supporting agricultural value chains like cassava production and distribution. The study recommended there is need for designing a longitudinal study to track all the changes and trends in the cassava value chain over time, capturing seasonal variations, market fluctuations, and the impacts of interventions or external factors on production, processing, and marketing activities.

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Pages: 12-16     |    5 View     |    0 Download