he use of digestate in smallholder cabbage farming has proven to enhance soil fertility and improve crop yields.

In South Africa, smallholder cabbage farmers are benefiting from an innovative, sustainable agricultural practice using digestate-a byproduct of biogas production

Digestate, rich in organic matter and nutrients, is being integrated into farming practices as a natural fertilizer, providing a cost-effective and environmentally-friendly alternative to synthetic fertilizers.

The use of digestate in smallholder cabbage farming has proven to enhance soil fertility and improve crop yields, addressing key challenges such as soil degradation and high fertilizer costs. The process of digestate production involves converting organic waste into biogas, which generates renewable energy. The leftover digestate is then used as a nutrient-rich soil amendment, reducing dependency on chemical fertilizers.

For smallholder farmers, especially those in rural areas, digestate offers a sustainable solution to several pressing issues. These farmers typically struggle with the high cost of commercial fertilizers, which often hinder productivity. By adopting digestate, farmers not only reduce input costs but also contribute to environmental sustainability by minimizing waste and greenhouse gas emissions associated with synthetic fertilizers.

The integration of digestate into cabbage farming also aligns with South Africa's broader agricultural sustainability goals. It promotes circular economy principles by repurposing agricultural waste into a valuable resource, benefiting both farmers and the environment. Additionally, the use of digestate has shown to improve soil health, water retention, and overall crop resilience, particularly in regions affected by erratic rainfall and drought.

As more farmers adopt digestate as part of their farming practices, its potential to revolutionize smallholder agriculture in South Africa grows. The practice not only supports food security by boosting crop yields but also helps farmers achieve greater sustainability, making it a game-changer for the agricultural sector.

By embracing biogas technology and digestate, South Africa’s smallholder farmers are moving towards a more resilient, cost-effective, and eco-friendly farming future.

Biotechnology solve Nigeria’s food security issues.

Nigeria must urgently tap into the power of biotechnology to address challenges in food production, healthcare, and economic growth, according to Professor James Chukwuma Ogbonna, Vice Chancellor of the State University of Medical and Applied Sciences, Igbo-Eno, Enugu State

Speaking at the 37th International Conference of the Biotechnology Society of Nigeria (BSN), held in Umudike, Ogbonna stressed the need for the country to take bold steps towards adopting biotechnology innovations. The conference, themed “Innovative Biotechnology for National Growth: Pathways to Food Security, Health and Environmental Sustainability,” brought together key stakeholders to explore solutions to Nigeria’s development challenges.

According to Ogbonna, biotechnology is central to tackling major global and national issues such as hunger, energy supply, disease management, and environmental protection. He pointed out that although Nigeria currently lacks the economic and technological strength to fully withstand foreign pressures, the country can only secure its future by aligning with global scientific progress without compromising cultural values.

“We will best be able to protect ourselves from undue influences only if we advance technologically and economically to the point of being globally competitive,” he said.

He called for stronger research efforts and the need to push biotechnology discoveries into commercial use. Ogbonna argued that showcasing the economic value of biotechnology would help attract more investments from both the government and private sector. He also noted the BSN’s role in promoting collaboration, highlighting the existence of cross-institutional research groups. However, he urged for more targeted research, better funding, and proposals that focus on Nigeria’s local needs.

He expressed concern about Nigeria’s heavy dependence on South-North collaborations, which he said often result in research led by foreign agendas with minimal relevance to local priorities.

On education, he urged the government to increase investment in biotechnology training and infrastructure. He encouraged BSN to strengthen ties with key institutions and agencies to improve education and research.

Ogbonna concluded by appreciating attendees and expressing hope that the conference would help re-examine Nigeria’s biotechnology sector and steer the nation toward becoming a knowledge-driven, tech-based economy.

NRCRI has prioritised making these innovations accessible to farmers.

To tackle challenges such as climate stress, low yields, and disease outbreaks, the National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI), Umudike, has successfully developed and released over 90 improved crop varieties tailored for Nigerian farmers

These include more than 50 cassava varieties, 30 yam varieties, 10 potato types, 4 sweet potato lines, and 2 ginger varieties, all bred for better productivity, disease resistance, and climate adaptability.

This was revealed by Prof. Chiedozie Egesi, Executive Director and CEO of NRCRI, during his address at the 37th International Conference of the Biotechnology Society of Nigeria (BSN), held from August 18 to 22, 2025, at the NRCRI Library Complex in Umudike. The conference, themed ‘Innovative Biotechnology for National Growth: Pathways to Food Security, Health and Environmental Sustainability’, was hosted in collaboration with the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU).

Prof. Egesi underscored the institute’s commitment to biotechnology as a critical tool in driving agricultural progress. He stated that NRCRI has consistently remained at the forefront of crop improvement by using advanced technologies like molecular markers, tissue culture, and gene editing to develop resilient and nutritious crop varieties that meet the demands of both farmers and markets.

The institute has also introduced modern propagation techniques to improve seed systems. These include the use of vine cuttings for sweet potato, aeroponics for rapid yam seed multiplication, and semi-autotrophic and autotrophic systems for cassava, potato, and sweet potato. These innovations ensure faster, healthier, and more reliable planting material production.

Beyond research, NRCRI has prioritised making these innovations accessible to farmers. Through rural empowerment schemes and training programmes, the institute supports technology adoption across the root and tuber value chain. “We have created vibrant communities of seed entrepreneurs across the country, ensuring sustainable access to quality planting materials, thereby strengthening seed systems,” said Prof. Egesi.

He added that thousands of farmers, students, and agro-industrialists have benefitted from technical and vocational training, focusing on areas like advanced multiplication techniques and the development of value-added products. “Training has focused on specialized areas such as advanced multiplication techniques and value-added product development.”

Among these innovations is a technology that extends the shelf life of gari to over one year, enhancing its storage, export potential, and market value. Other product developments include starch, instant fufu, baby formula, bread, chips, biscuits, and flakes.

Prof. Egesi stressed that NRCRI’s work directly contributes to national priorities such as food security, poverty reduction, and economic empowerment, aligning with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR. He also reaffirmed the institute’s commitment to climate-smart agriculture, noting its essential role in promoting environmental sustainability amid ongoing climate change challenges.

A major part of the initiative is the dredging of nearby rivers to enable all-year-round farming

In a significant move to enhance food production and security in Nigeria’s Northeast, Mustapha Barkindo , the Lamido of Adamawa, has approved the allocation of 2,000 hectares of land for the development of a modern agricultural hub

This ambitious project is expected to change the landscape of farming in the region and provide jobs for over 10,000 youths.

The initiative, known as the Adamawa State Agricultural Hub, is part of the ACReSAL programme and will be led by Business Development Managers Consultancy Services (BDMCs). It is being developed in collaboration with the Adamawa Emirate Council and the state government, with the aim of transforming agriculture into a more innovative, productive, and economically viable sector.

Abubakar Umar, chairman of BDMCs’ board of directors, announced during a briefing at the Lamido’s palace that the land will host an integrated agricultural platform. This will include every stage of the value chain—cultivation, harvesting, processing, packaging, and export. Crops such as yellow maize, sesame seeds, ginger, turmeric, soybeans, and hibiscus are prioritised for production, reflecting both local demand and export potential.

In addition to crop cultivation, the hub will support livestock and fisheries. Plans include goat and poultry farming, cattle rearing, milk production, animal fattening, and aquaculture. These sectors will help diversify agricultural activities while providing multiple streams of income for local farmers.

Representing the Lamido, Umar Yahaya,  the secretary of the Emirate, reaffirmed support for the project, describing it as a timely and strategic intervention. “This is a partnership that will drive economic development, youth empowerment, and food security in Adamawa state,” he said.

The project carries an estimated investment of US$80mn, largely backed by American investors, while technical support and machinery will come from Chinese partners. Peter Olayinka, vice chairman of BDMCs, highlighted the broader ambition behind the project. “The hub will create at least 10,000 direct and indirect jobs, boost internally generated revenue, and enhance agricultural research and training,” he stated. He also mentioned that Osun and Delta States have been identified as the next phases of the rollout.

A major part of the initiative is the dredging of nearby rivers to enable all-year-round farming. The adoption of modern technologies like all-crop sensing and greenhouse systems will also be introduced to boost productivity.

Furthermore, the project includes plans for a Tropical Institute of Agriculture. This institute will offer practical training to participants from across Nigeria, focusing on crops suited to each state’s specific strengths. Trainees will receive financial support and their produce will be collected for export.

To complement these developments, an agro-city will be constructed within the hub. This will feature administrative buildings, hostels, a farm market square, a three-star hotel, an aquatic farm restaurant, and even a helipad to improve investor access.