The Nairobi International Trade Fair (NITF), held at the Jamhuri Showground between 23 – 29 September 2024, attracted over 500 global and local exhibitors. Hosted by the Agricultural Society of Kenya, the event focused on "Promoting Climate Smart Agriculture and Trade Initiatives for Sustainable Economic Growth"—a theme crucial for addressing food security in the face of climate change. Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT) Orange Flesh Sweet Potato (OFSP) Compact showcased a range of innovations designed to uplift farmers and communities through climate-smart solutions.
With exhibitors from agriculture, manufacturing, SMEs, and more, the NITF provided a platform for knowledge sharing, showcasing emerging technologies, and demonstrating sustainable agricultural practices. As agriculture continues to face increased uncertainties, such platforms enable experts and stakeholders to collaborate on innovative solutions, ensuring a resilient future for African agriculture.
Other than displaying OFSP technologies, we also engaged with stakeholders about the transformative potential of OFSP in improving nutrition and livelihoods across Africa. With TAAT's operational presence in 27 African countries, including 15 agricultural compacts such as OFSP, this was a prime opportunity to illustrate how climate-smart farming practices can meet the nutritional needs of communities while boosting farmers' incomes.
The TAAT OFSP Compact featured a variety of impactful technologies aimed at increasing agricultural productivity and enhancing nutrition. The technologies include.
Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs):
We demonstrated best practices in OFSP farming including proper soil preparation, timely planting, and careful pest management to ensure optimal crop growth. At harvest, attention to timing and handling is essential for maximizing yield and maintaining root quality.
OFSP Varieties:
Visitors to our stand explored a range of climate-smart OFSP varieties rich in beta-carotene. These varieties not only offer high yields and disease resistance but are also specifically adapted to the continent's climate.
OFSP Puree:
This nutrient-dense product is used in baked goods and snacks to enhance vitamin A intake, making it an excellent solution for both industrial and household use.
Healthy Baby Toolkits: This innovative kit provides OFSP-based nutritional education to improve maternal and child health in rural communities.
OFSP Recipes:
We introduced attendees to delicious and nutritious OFSP-based recipes such as chapatis, mandazis, and cakes, showing how to incorporate vitamin-rich crop into everyday meals.
Sweet potato Leaf Consumption:
Promoting the consumption of sweet potato leaves for their rich iron and vitamin content, we emphasized the importance of diversifying diets to improve food security and nutrition.
Nutritional Messaging: Through engaging discussions and materials, we delivered vital information on the health benefits of OFSP, including its role in reducing malnutrition, improving eye health, and boosting immunity.
The NITF was an invaluable opportunity to interact with diverse stakeholders, ranging from government officials to local farmers. Overall, we built collaborative networks with sector stakeholders, innovation sharing towards a more food-secure future and created awareness about OFSP's potential in combating malnutrition particularly among children.
For more information:
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