In a remarkable event hosted at the prestigious Safari Park Hotel in Nairobi County, AWAK participated in the first-ever National Cassava Conference Expo 2023 (NCCE). The three-day conference, organized by Self Help Africa, International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, KALRO, and Mennonite Economic Development Associates (MEDA), aimed to spearhead innovation and technology for the commercialization of the cassava sector.

The conference, held under the theme “Spearheading Innovation and Technology for Cassava Sector Commercialization,” sought to transform the narrative surrounding cassava from being considered a poor man’s diet to recognizing it as a viable commercial crop. Our participation in this groundbreaking event showcases our commitment to advancing the interests of women in agriculture, particularly in the crucial cassava value chain prevalent among smallholder farmers in the coastal region.

AWAK’s representatives engaged in a comprehensive exploration of the opportunities within the cassava value chain, emphasizing learning, experience, and tasting to fully comprehend the potential this sector holds. We aimed to identify key stakeholders for potential collaboration and partnerships, with a primary focus on building the capacity of farmers. This collaborative effort is geared towards enhancing food security, promoting nutrition, and empowering women economically.

Our participation in NCCE 2023 not only marks a significant milestone but also highlights our dedication to driving innovation, technology, and commercialization in the cassava sector for the benefit of women in agriculture and the broader farming community.