Cassava, at the center of Makala Renouvelable

Photo: Elsa Vasseur

At the center of the project's objectives lies the sustainable production of cassava, notably in the form of micro-chips which can be more effectively commercialized by small farmers. Cassava is the most important staple food in this region of DR Congo, and the basis of subsistence farming in Ibi. The Makala Renouvelable project is helping small farmers integrate the cultivation of cassava with sustainable agroforestry practices, while developing capacity for processing and marketing to create a steady source of income for farmers.

In the picture, cassava micro-chips are being dried for further processing. Cassava flour is a popular food item in Kinshasa, a market opportunity Ibi farmers are hoping to benefit further from.