By Rita Okonkwo
The price of garri has dropped significantly at Nkwo Agulu Market in Anaocha Local Government Area(LGA) of Anambra State, with a paint bucket now selling for about ₦1,200, compared to between ₦6,000 and ₦7,000 recorded three to four years ago.
Traders and residents attribute the decline to increased cassava cultivation and the growing adoption of backyard farming by households across the state.
Speaking with newsmen at the market, a trader, Mrs. Ekwutosi Emeh, said the abundance of cassava this year is largely due to more families cultivating the crop for their own consumption.
According to her, backyard farming has not only improved food security but also created additional sources of income for many households.
Mrs. Emeh said she established her petty business of selling fufu and akpu wraps with proceeds from cassava harvested in her home garden.
“I started this business with income from cassava grown in my backyard and i also cultivate vegetables alongside the cassava, which helps feed my family and reduces our household expenses.” she said.
She explained that depending on market demand, she processes her cassava into either garri or fufu, providing her with a steady source of income despite prevailing economic challenges.
Mrs. Emeh expressed appreciation for the backyard farming campaign championed by the Wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr. Mrs. Nonye Soludo, describing the initiative as a practical way of improving household food production and economic resilience.
She encouraged women to make productive use of available land around their homes, no matter how small, noting that home gardening can supplement family nutrition while generating extra income.
Agricultural observers say the increasing adoption of backyard and subsistence farming has helped cushion the impact of rising food prices, improved household food security and strengthened community resilience in the face of current economic realities.
Rita Okonkwo is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
