Improving cassava yields and soil health with microbial stimulants

A sustainable alternative to synthetic agrochemicals

Project Partners: Centre for Process Innovation Limited (CPI), Embrapa (Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation), Legume Technology and National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI) 

Nigeria is the world’s largest producer of cassava, accounting for approximately 20% of global production. However, challenges such as soil degradation, climate variability and post-harvest losses due to inadequate processing and storage infrastructure continue to hinder productivity and economic returns. Most cassava in Nigeria is grown for local consumption and average yields remain low, around 6.4 tonnes per hectare compared to the 30-40 tonnes per hectare achieved in parts of South America and Asia. This yield gap represents a significant untapped market opportunity.  

Combining global expertise

This project brings together expertise from three continents: the National Root Crops Research Institute (Nigeria); Embrapa (Brazil); Centre for Process Innovation (UK) and Legume Technology Limited (UK). Together, the partners will work towards the development of microbial biostimulants tailored specifically to support cassava farming in Nigeria, with a specific focus on microbial species that are native to the Nigerian agricultural soil system. Through the use of native microbes, they aim to avoid the regulatory and environmental risks associated with the introduction of non-native species, ensuring safer and more sustainable solutions tailored to local conditions. Microbial biostimulants and biofertilisers represent a climate-smart agricultural innovation that can address the yield gap in African agriculture. These biostimulants and biofertilisers can enhance nutrient uptake, promote root growth, and increase crop resilience to stressors such as drought and pests. Importantly, they offer a sustainable alternative to synthetic agrochemicals, supporting soil regeneration and reducing environmental harm. Improving cassava yields through microbial solutions can unlock a high-potential commercial market, increase farmer income, reduce reliance on imports, and position Nigeria as a regional leader in bio-based agricultural innovation. 

For more information

For more information on this project, contact us, or view all projects funded under the Climate-Smart Agriculture Partnership programme.

Innovate UK Climate-Smart Agriculture Partnership: UK-Brazil-Africa brings together innovative people and organisations to promote climate-smart agriculture in Africa.