30 farmers to benefit from cassava flour processing project
Thirty farmers of Kwebanna Village in the Moruca Sub-district of Region One (Barima-Waini) will benefit from a $10 million cassava flour processing facility aimed at enhancing food security and maximising income potential of the village.
Launched last Saturday by Minister within the Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Ministry (MoIPA), Valerie Garrido-Lowe, flour produced from the project will comprise of 40 per cent cassava content and 60 per cent wheat content, which can be used to make healthier meals.
Some of the villagers sharing their views on the new project
The toshao and residents of the village have welcomed implementation of this project proposed by the MoIPA, relating that it would propel the local cassava industry of the region, and eventually the village’s economy. They have also pledged to work diligently to produce large crops of cassava.
Minister Garrido-Lowe explained that there have been consultations with Barbados, a prominent producer of cassava-wheat flour, so as to acquire firsthand knowledge of the new product. The budgetary allocation will cover mainly the construction of the facility, acquisition of machinery, planting materials, and training among other aspects.
Three farmers will accompany Community Development Officer (CDO) Godfrey Wilson as he spearheads the operations in Region One.
The National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), like the Ministries of Agriculture, Business and Social Protection, are among the main partners that would aid in the accomplishment of this venture.
A ground coffee project was also recently launched in Region One by Minister Garrido-Lowe, to assist in boosting the region’s economy.
