IBADAN, Nigeria (AFP) — Cassava, the starch rusty-coloured root that is a staple in Nigeria, is a paradigm of the problem the import-dependent nation now faces as the plunge in oil prices crimps the economy. The root is used to make “eba” and “fufu” — filling pastes that are beloved dishes in Nigerian homes — but there are a myriad of uses for cassava, including making flour and beer. The problem — and opportunity — […]
Tag: Cassava
DA beefs up control of cassava witches’ broom disease
JUNE 25 — The Department of Agriculture (DA), through the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI), has intensified measures to control the spread of witches’ broom disease, which could endanger the country’s growing cassava industry if not proactively addressed. A bacteria-like organism called phytoplasma causes the witches’ broom disease.[1] The disease reduces cassava root starch content, hence reducing yield value and farmers’ income. Symptoms not noticeable The BPI said that the witches’ broom disease is systemic […]





