AMREC, Omoluabi Unveil Cassava Waste Processing Machine for Animal Feed Production

The Agricultural Media Resources and Extension Centre (AMREC) of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), in collaboration with Omoluabi, has donated a cassava waste processing machine to farmers and cassava processors in Alabata Community, Odeda Local Government Area of Ogun State, alongside practical training on converting cassava waste into nutritious animal feed.

The initiative was aimed at promoting sustainable agricultural waste management, adding value to cassava by-products, and reducing livestock feed costs through innovative alternatives.

Represented by the Director of AMREC, Prof. Jacob Olaoye, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, described Alabata as a deserving beneficiary, noting its reputation as one of Ogun State’s leading cassava-producing communities and encouraging residents to maximise the opportunities provided by the project.

The Vice-Chancellor also commended the Olu of Alabata, Oba Sanusi Waheed Alani, and the people of the community for their contributions to food security and agricultural development.

In his response, Oba Alani appreciated the Vice-Chancellor for the University’s continuous support, recalling previous interventions, including the donation of a borehole and AMREC’s extension services, which have improved farmers’ livelihoods. He added that converting agricultural waste into valuable products would increase farmers’ income while protecting the environment.

The Country Representative of Omoluabi, Mr. Mudashiru Quadri, said the project, initiated by Obabinrin Aderonke Okeleye, was designed for the benefit of the entire community. He urged the traditional ruler to ensure proper maintenance of the donated cassava grinder and presser and guarantee equal access for all users.

Mr. Quadri added that effective management of the equipment would position Alabata to benefit from more developmental interventions in the future.

During the practical session, Dr. Tolulope Adebowale demonstrated the process of producing animal feed from fresh cassava peels and residues. He advised farmers to use only peels less than 24 hours old and explained the procedures of washing, grinding, pressing, fermenting, and drying the products for livestock feeding.

The programme climaxed with the presentation of the cassava waste processing machine to the Olu of Alabata by the Director of AMREC. Responding on behalf of the community, Oba Alani thanked FUNAAB and Omoluabi for the intervention and appealed for more collaborative projects to enhance agricultural productivity and improve farmers’ livelihoods.