Enhancing the Cassava Processing Value Chain: Sustainable Production of Edible Starch and Cassava-Based Confectionery in Emerging Markets

Agriculture is critical to Nigeria's economic development and food security, yet its potential is constrained by limited value addition, particularly in cassava processing.This study examines the cassava value chain with a focus on transforming cassava into edible starch and local cassava cake (gari) in Isoko North, Delta State, Nigeria.A cross-sectional survey was conducted during the 2024 production season using a multistage sampling approach to select 100 cassava processors from ten randomly chosen communities.Data were collected via structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, gross margin analysis, and regression modeling.Results reveal that 80% of respondents were female, with 80% lacking formal education and 75% married, reflecting the socio-economic profile of processors in the area.55% had over 16 years of experience in cassava processing, underscoring the sector's longstanding importance.Economic analysis indicated that processors generated an average revenue of 500,000 against total costs of 237,000, resulting in a gross margin of 263,000 and a return on investment of 111%.Regression analysis demonstrated that 77% of the variability in annual revenue was explained by production inputs, market dynamics, and socioeconomic factors.The study identifies several challenges, including outdated processing technologies, limited credit access, volatile market pricing, insufficient storage facilities, and high operational costs.Policy recommendations include developing local innovation hubs, integrated digital platform, alongside implementation of Blockchain-enabled Traceability and incentivization of renewable energy adoption.These interventions could facilitate a transition from subsistence to a modern cassava value chain, thereby enhancing food security and economic empowerment in Nigeria.