Casssava

BCI has been working with the South-East Consortium for International Development to implement and coordinate sustainable agriculture (Cassava project) programs as a core development model for the region.

Up to 80% of Cassava crops, a food staple in the region, has consistently been devastated by mosaic disease which reduces nutrients and income sources for the local population. This often leads to increased destruction of forests for agriculture and increased reliance on bushmeat for food as well as an incvome source. By introducing a mosaic disease resistant cassava starin, and providing training in improved agricultural techniques, we may reduce the impact on teh forests, reduce bushmeat hunting, adn provide improved incomes for local populations.

By building on this model, BCI and SECID have a significant opportunity to play a leadership role in Equateur for development and conservation, as well as to establish pilot programs and models for integrated development that can be utilized in other regions of the Congo and the world. The most critical factor in the development of these programs will be the ability to implement holistic, multi-sectoral programs that address local needs, generate support from regional and national authorities and attract attention and support of international partners.

BCI and partner, Vie Sauvage have established 19 multiplication and production fields for disease-resistant cassava in both Kokolopori (12 sites) and Lonua (7 sites), with the technical support from SECID. This is having a major positive impact with villagers, who are already benefiting greatly from this with improved, healthy cassava for their own sustenance as well as developing production for sale. Improved yield will also help reduce the agricultural footprint of the local farmers, facilitating compliance with the zoning agreements. Cuttings are available to share with other villages; we are looking to provide this assistance to Wamba in coordination with CREF.

We have also implemented the cassava program in the Lac Tumba region with CREF and a number of community-based organizations.

In addition to agricultural projects being developed in coordination with conservation efforts, we are also implementing a number of micro-enterprise programs and providing micro-credit training to community and NGO leaders.