The Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) and the Nigeria Climate Innovation Centre (NCIC) have joined forces to grant $16,000 to four Nigerian innovators, aiming to bolster the consumption of safe and nutritious foods across Nigeria.
According to Michael Ojo, country director at GAIN, this initiative marks the successful conclusion of the agribusiness innovation challenge, with a vision to revolutionize the country’s food systems.
The project culminated in a Demo Day, where finalists competed for the esteemed title and a total prize of N12 million ($16,000). The four winners, selected for their innovative solutions, will receive ongoing support from GAIN to implement their ideas in Kaduna, Nasarawa, Benue, and Oyo states, thereby benefiting local communities.
Among the winners is Chukwudalu Ufondu of Kovworks, whose innovation, an automatic and mobile “Cassava Peeling and Washing Machine,” promises more efficient and sustainable cassava processing.
Conducted under the Business Support workstream of the Strengthening Nutrition in Priority Staples (SNIPS) project, this challenge aimed to enhance the production, commercialization, and consumption of safe and nutritious foods in Nigeria.
Ojo emphasized the holistic approach to address challenges throughout the food supply chain, ensuring a healthier journey of these foods from farm to fork. The initiative not only fosters innovation but also lays the groundwork for a more sustainable and resilient food system, aligning with broader goals of promoting food safety and nutrition.
