|
|
Article: Can cassava replace maize? An increasing number of African governments are looking to cassava, rich in starch, as an alternative to maize that has been the traditional staple food in large parts of Africa. But cassava can be lethal. Kennie Ntonga examines the arguments.(Agriculture)
- Article from:
- African Business
- Article date:
- December 1, 2003
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2003 IC Publications Ltd. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
|
Unpredictable weather conditions and high cost of farm inputs have forced many African governments to earmark cassava as the most suitable alternative food crop, but scientists say continuous consumption of the crop may result in serious health implications on both people and livestock.
Many Africans depend on maize as their staple food, but adverse weather conditions, environmental degradation and the ever increasing cost of chemical fertilisers have resulted in low production of the crop over recent years. Many countries, especially in the southern African region have been forced to imported maize to feed their ever increasing populations.
Under its ...