Agriculture is the backbone of Togo, engaging approximately 60% of its population and driving the nation’s economic development. However, the sector has continually faced low productivity and soil health degradation due to unsustainable input usage. In response, the Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT) Cassava Compact, in collaboration with the Institut Togolais de Recherches Agronomiques (ITRA), Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA), University of Kara, and IITA-led Zero Hunger Project and other partners, organized a two-day training for agro-dealers, innovation platform leaders, agricultural scientists, and youths to improve farmers’ access to high-quality agricultural inputs.
The event, held from 13 to 14 May in Lome, Togo, drew 78 participants, including agro-dealers, innovation platform leaders, scientists, and youth groups from various regions of Togo. Notably, 24% of the attendees were female, and 52% were youth. The training included nursing mothers to ensure inclusiveness, and it aimed to enhance the knowledge of input dealers and agrochemical sales representatives, particularly in managing cassava production and weed control, which accounts for over 60% of production costs.
The workshop commenced with opening remarks by IITA Partnership for Delivery (P4D) Director Alfred Dixon, who urged participants to leverage the training for improved agricultural practices. Laboni Matéyendou from the University of Kara welcomed the attendees, emphasizing the importance of attentiveness and experience sharing.
Key presentations covered new opportunities for seed companies and agri-multipliers, with IITA Cassava Breeder and CBSD Project Manager Sikirou Mouritala, and University of Kara Cassava Breeder and Seed System Specialist Tighankoumi Gmakouba highlighting improved cassava varieties tailored to user needs.
IITA Postdoctoral Fellow and Cassava Breeder Najimu Adetoro introduced the Semi-Autotrophic Hydroponics (SAH) technology, which promises healthier and faster-growing cassava seeds, presenting a lucrative business opportunity for agro-dealers.
Further presentations focused on pesticide regulations and safety. IITA Weed Scientist Friday Ekeleme stressed the importance of proper pesticide usage and personal protective equipment, while IITA Project Management Specialist Oyewale Abioye introduced mobile applications to assist farmers in precise herbicide management on their fields.
On the second day, ENABLE TAAT Business Development Officer Idowu Osun encouraged the participants to cultivate a business mindset and innovation in agricultural practices. University of Zimbabwe Associate Professor Nyikahadzoi Kefasi led sessions on developing business plans and the role of innovation platforms in the agricultural value chain.
During the closing ceremony, TAAT Cassava Compact Coordinator Abass Adebayo praised various stakeholders’ active participation and support. Matéyendou encouraged participants to apply their newfound knowledge to enhance Togo’s cassava sector.
Contributed by Oyewale Abioye
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