The cassava trade in Nigeria: bridging buyers and sellers

Introduction to cassava trade in Nigeria

Cassava, often called the “bread of the tropics,” is a versatile and important crop that sustains millions of people worldwide. Its significance extends beyond being a staple food; cassava plays an important role in global agriculture, economy, and trade. This hardy root vegetable thrives in diverse climates and soils, making it a reliable source of nutrition and income in many developing regions.

Cassava (Manihot esculenta) is a starchy root vegetable native to South America. It is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, including Africa, Asia, and Latin America, most especially in Nigeria. The plant is valued for its tuberous roots, which are rich in carbohydrates and provide a significant source of calories. 

The Importance of cassava in global agriculture

Cassava’s importance in global agriculture cannot be overstated. It is the third-largest source of carbohydrates in the tropics, after rice and maize. The crop’s resilience to drought and poor soil conditions makes it a dependable food source, particularly in regions prone to climate variability and food insecurity. 

Cassava trade in Nigeria is an important component of food security, feeding millions of people and supporting livelihoods. Moreover, its ability to be harvested as needed provides a flexible food reserve in times of scarcity.

In addition to its role as a food staple, cassava contributes significantly to the agricultural economy. It supports smallholder farmers who rely on its cultivation for their income. The crop’s various industrial applications, from animal feed to bioethanol production, further enhance its economic value. 

Five benefits of trading cassava

1. Economic empowerment for farmers: cassava trade in Nigeria provides significant economic benefits to smallholder farmers, particularly in developing regions. By selling their cassava products in local and international markets, farmers can increase their income, improve their livelihoods, and invest in better farming practices and technology. This economic empowerment helps to alleviate poverty and stimulate rural development.

2. Food security enhancement: Cassava is a resilient crop that thrives in a variety of soil types and climatic conditions, making it a reliable source of food in regions prone to drought and poor soil fertility. By trading cassava, countries can ensure a steady supply of this staple food, enhancing food security and reducing dependence on imported grains. This is particularly crucial in regions where food scarcity is a recurrent issue.

3. Diverse product applications: Cassava’s versatility allows it to be processed into a wide range of products, such as flour, starch, animal feed, and biofuel. Trading these diverse products opens up multiple revenue streams for producers and traders. The ability to cater to various markets, including food, industrial, and energy sectors, makes cassava an attractive commodity with broad economic potential.

4. Sustainable agricultural practices: The growing demand for cassava encourages the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices. Farmers are incentivized to implement better farming techniques, including crop rotation, pest management, and soil conservation, to increase yield and quality. Sustainable practices not only enhance the productivity of cassava but also contribute to environmental conservation and long-term agricultural viability.

5. Global market opportunities: The international trade of cassava and its products provides access to global markets, offering substantial opportunities for growth and expansion. Countries like Thailand and Vietnam have successfully tapped into these markets, exporting large quantities of cassava products to meet global demand. For emerging cassava producers, entering the global market can lead to increased exports, foreign exchange earnings, and integration into the global economy.

Some types of cassava products

1. Fresh cassava roots: Fresh cassava roots are the most direct form of the crop, typically consumed after being peeled, washed, and cooked. They can be boiled, baked, or fried and are often used in traditional dishes across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Fresh roots are also used to produce various other cassava-based products.

2. Cassava chips and pellets: Cassava chips and pellets are dried and processed forms of the root, which enhance its shelf life and ease of transport. These products are primarily used as animal feed, providing a high-energy food source for livestock. Additionally, cassava chips are a popular snack in many cultures, offering a crunchy and nutritious alternative to potato chips.

3. Cassava flour: Cassava flour is made by drying and grinding the roots into a fine powder. It is a gluten-free alternative to wheat flour, making it a valuable ingredient for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Cassava flour is used in baking, and cooking, and as a thickening agent in various recipes. Its neutral flavor and fine texture make it a versatile addition to many dishes.

4. Cassava starch: Cassava starch, also known as tapioca starch, is extracted from the roots and is widely used in both food and industrial applications. In the culinary world, it is used as a thickener in sauces, soups, and desserts, providing a smooth and glossy finish. Industrially, cassava starch is used in the production of paper, textiles, and adhesives. Its high purity and excellent binding properties make it a sought-after material in various manufacturing processes.

5. Cassava-based animal feed: Cassava is a valuable ingredient in animal feed, particularly in regions where traditional feed crops like corn are scarce or expensive. The cassava-based feed can be in the form of fresh roots, chips, pellets, or even processed meals. It provides a high-energy, digestible source of carbohydrates for livestock, promoting healthy growth and development. Its inclusion in animal diets can reduce feed costs and increase food security for farmers.

6. Cassava ethanol: Cassava ethanol is a biofuel derived from the fermentation of cassava starch. It is used as a renewable energy source, offering an alternative to fossil fuels. The production of cassava ethanol is particularly significant in countries aiming to reduce their carbon footprint and dependence on imported oil. This biofuel can be used in transportation, electricity generation, and as a cooking fuel, contributing to sustainable energy solutions.

FAQs about cassava trade in Nigeria

Our platform’s (Peony Nigeria Limited) role in the cassava trade in Nigeria

At Peony Nigeria Limited, we are dedicated to revolutionizing the cassava trade in Nigeria by providing a robust platform that connects farmers, buyers, and processors. Our goal is to streamline transactions, ensure quality, and foster growth in the cassava industry, contributing to food security and economic development in Nigeria and beyond.

How we facilitate transactions

1. Digital marketplace: We offer an intuitive digital marketplace where farmers can list their cassava products, including fresh roots, chips, flour, starch, and animal feed. Buyers can browse these listings, compare prices, and make informed purchasing decisions.

2. Secure payment systems: Transactions are made easy and secure with our integrated payment systems. We ensure that both buyers and sellers have access to a range of payment options, including mobile money, bank transfers, and digital wallets, ensuring convenience and safety for all parties involved.

3. Logistics support: Understanding the challenges of transporting perishable goods, we provide logistics support to ensure the timely and efficient delivery of cassava products. Our network of reliable transportation partners ensures that products reach their destinations in optimal condition.

4. Market insights: We equip our users with valuable market insights and data analytics. By offering information on market trends, pricing, and demand, we help farmers and buyers make strategic decisions to maximize their profitability and efficiency.

Ensuring quality and reliability

At Peony Nigeria Limited, quality and reliability are at the core of our operations. We implement stringent measures to ensure that every transaction meets the highest standards:

1. Quality assurance: We partner with certified agricultural experts and quality control agencies to inspect and verify the quality of cassava products listed on our platform. This guarantees that buyers receive only the best products, meeting both local and international standards.

2. Training and support: We provide farmers with training and resources to adopt best practices in cassava cultivation and processing. This includes workshops on sustainable farming techniques, pest management, and post-harvest handling, ensuring that they can produce high-quality cassava consistently.

3. Reliable partnerships: Our platform collaborates with reputable suppliers, processors, and buyers, fostering a network of reliable stakeholders. These partnerships ensure that our users can trust the integrity and dependability of every transaction conducted through our platform.

4. Customer support: We offer comprehensive customer support to assist users with any issues or inquiries. Our dedicated team is available to provide guidance, resolve disputes, and ensure a smooth and satisfactory experience for all users.