VCDP Rice and Cassava Processors Pledge to Maintain Quality Standards, Boost Sales
From Priscilla Ben
Rice and cassava processors supported by the Federal Government through the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) Value Chain Development Program (VCDP) in Niger State have committed to upholding high-quality standards in their processing to build consumer trust and increase sales.
The processors participated in a training on rice and cassava destoning and packaging techniques in the Lavun Local Government Area of Niger State.
Participants from the nine local government areas involved said that ongoing training was crucial in strengthening their skills in product processing and packaging, leading to higher sales and improved socio-economic conditions.
Some beneficiaries, Amina Adamu and Aishatu Mohammed, both rice processors from Lavun Local Government Area, expressed gratitude to VCDP for organizing the training, calling it eye-opening.
They said the training introduced them to modern processing methods that enhance product quality and marketability.
“Our capacity has been built on how to process rice to ensure it is free from dirt and stones, something we did not pay much attention to before. Although our local government was among the last to be included in the program, we have learned a lot. We discovered that what we were producing before was not of the desired quality standard,” they said.
Additionally, a garri processor from Bida Local Government Area, Mrs. Kate Gana, noted that the training significantly improved their skills, especially in producing high-quality garri free of sand and stones.
She added that participants also received training on proper packaging techniques, which have helped attract more customers.
“The quality of our garri has improved, and through the market linkages provided by VCDP, we now have access to broader markets for our products,” she said.
Earlier, Mrs. Joy Teni Kolo, the Assistant Agro-Processing and Quality Enhancement Officer of the Niger State VCDP, explained that the training specifically targeted processors from Lavun Local Government Area who joined the program last year.
“We trained them on the importance of proper packaging, the use of standard packaging materials, and branding techniques that will make their products easily recognizable and competitive in the market.
Our aim is to position their products among the best in the market, especially cassava products, which have over 20 value-added finished products,” she stated.
