The President of Sierra Leone, H.E. Julius Maada Bio, and the Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, visited the AATF Cassava Mechanization Facility in Fasola, near Ibadan, to witness firsthand how technology is transforming the cassava value chain and improving rural livelihoods.
The visit provided the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) with an opportunity to showcase its state-of-the-art Cassava Processing Facility, which converts fresh cassava roots into high-quality cassava flour (HQCF). This demonstration underscored AATF’s commitment to leveraging innovative technologies to enhance productivity and create economic opportunities for smallholder farmers.
The delegation’s tour was part of a broader visit to the Fasola Agribusiness Hub, a flagship initiative of the Oyo State Government aimed at fostering a thriving agribusiness ecosystem. The hub reflects Governor Makinde’s dedication to driving economic growth through agricultural transformation.
During the visit, Mr. Samuel Ogunleye, Project Coordinator for Mechanization and Agro-Processing at AATF, introduced the facility and highlighted the organization’s efforts in equipping local cassava farmers with best agronomic practices, farm mechanization services, and training on diversified cassava utilization.
Governor Makinde praised the initiative, emphasizing its role in strengthening food security, creating jobs, and fostering economic resilience. President Bio also commended the partnership-driven approach, noting the significance of technology adoption in advancing Africa’s agricultural sector.