The amaranth industry in Africa is a rapidly emerging sector with great potential for growth. This highly nutritious and versatile crop has captured the attention of farmers, researchers, and policymakers due to its ability to grow in a variety of agro-ecological zones and contribute to food security, income generation, and sustainable agriculture.
In East Africa, Tanzania and Uganda are among the countries that have started to grow amaranth for food and export. In Tanzania, amaranth is primarily grown for domestic consumption and is used to make a traditional dish called “mchicha.” In Uganda, the crop is used to make a popular snack called “dodo” and is also exported to Europe and the United States.
In West Africa, Nigeria is the largest producer of amaranth and is also the world’s second-largest producer of the crop after China. Nigeria is known for its high-quality amaranth seeds, which are used for making nutritious porridges and flours. Ghana and Burkina Faso are also starting to cultivate amaranth, with a focus on organic production for export.
While the industry is poised for growth, it still faces several challenges, including low yields, limited access to markets, and a lack of processing facilities. To address these challenges, it is essential to promote the cultivation of high-yielding amaranth varieties, support the establishment of processing facilities, and facilitate access to markets for small-scale farmers. Addressing these challenges and promoting the growth of the amaranth industry in Africa can have a significant impact on food security, poverty alleviation, and sustainable development.
Here are some statistics, facts, figures, and prices related to the amaranth industry in Africa:
- Production: According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Nigeria is the largest producer of amaranth in Africa, accounting for over 60% of the continent’s total production. Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya are also significant producers of the crop.
- Nutritional Value: Amaranth is a highly nutritious crop, containing high levels of protein, fiber, and essential minerals such as iron, calcium, and magnesium. It is also gluten-free and low in fat, making it an ideal food for people with dietary restrictions.
- Prices: The prices of amaranth in Africa vary depending on the country and market. In Nigeria, for example, the price of amaranth leaves (known locally as “green vegetable” or “aleho”) ranges from NGN 50 to NGN 150 per bunch (equivalent to USD 0.13 to USD 0.39). In Uganda, the price of amaranth seeds ranges from UGX 2,500 to UGX 5,000 per kilogram (equivalent to USD 0.69 to USD 1.38).
- Cultivation: Amaranth is a versatile crop that can be grown in a variety of agro-ecological zones, including arid and semi-arid areas. It is also relatively easy to cultivate and can be intercropped with other crops, making it an ideal crop for small-scale farmers.
- Uses: Amaranth is primarily used for food in Africa, with the leaves and seeds being used to make various dishes such as soups, stews, and porridges. The crop is also used for medicinal purposes, with some traditional healers using it to treat various ailments such as anemia, hypertension, and diabetes.
- Export: Some African countries, such as Tanzania and Uganda, have started to export amaranth to international markets. In 2020, for example, Tanzania exported over 3,000 metric tons of amaranth seeds, primarily to Europe and the United States.
- Potential for Growth: The amaranth industry in Africa has great potential for growth, with increasing demand for nutritious and sustainable food. However, the industry faces several challenges, including low yields, limited access to markets, and a lack of processing facilities. To realize the full potential of the industry, it will require concerted efforts by governments, development organizations, and other stakeholders.
In the long run, the amaranth industry in Africa has great potential for growth, especially as more consumers become aware of the nutritional benefits of the crop. However, there are still some challenges to overcome, such as low yields, lack of processing facilities, and limited access to markets. Governments and development organizations are working to address these issues and support the growth of the amaranth industry in Africa.
Sources: United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), FAO, “FAOSTAT Database”
