In a remarkable display of sustainable innovation and market acumen, Ayosifam, the parent company of AyosifamHub, has successfully leveraged the abundant Nigerian sunlight to dry 20 tons of cassava chips between November 2024 and May 2025. This simple yet highly effective but also proved to be a significant commercial success, with all dried chips selling out within just one month.
Ayosifam’s approach to sun-drying cassava chips showcases a practical and accessible method for small and medium-sized enterprises to adopt clean energy practices. By spreading the cassava chips on large, clean slabs under the sun, the company efficiently removed moisture, preparing the chips for storage and sale without relying on fossil fuels or complex machinery. This method significantly reduces production costs and environmental impact, aligning with global efforts towards sustainable development.
The rapid sale of all 20 tons of cassava chips underscores Nigeria’s strong market demand for this commodity. Cassava chips serve as a crucial raw material for various industries, including animal feed, ethanol production, and food processing. Ayosifam’s success highlights a readily available market that, if strategically targeted, can provide substantial economic benefits.
A Blueprint for Investors and a Boon for Farmers
Ayosifam’s experience offers a valuable lesson for potential investors looking to enter the agricultural sector, particularly in cassava processing. The period between October and May, characterized by more consistent sunlight and lower humidity in many parts of Nigeria, presents an optimal window for sun-drying operations. By targeting this dry season, businesses can maximize their drying efficiency and product quality.
Furthermore, this model has a profound positive impact on smallholder cassava farmers. A reliable market for cassava chips provides farmers with an assured off-taker for their produce, reducing post-harvest losses and increasing their income. This, in turn, contributes significantly to food security in Nigeria by empowering farmers and promoting the cultivation of a staple crop.
Looking Ahead: Scaling Up for Greater Impact
Buoyed by the resounding success of the 2024-2025 season, Ayosifam is setting ambitious targets for the upcoming period. Between October 2025 and May 2026, the company plans to collect a significant 50 tons of cassava chips from smallholder farmers. This expansion not only signifies Ayosifam’s commitment to growth but also promises to further bolster the livelihoods of numerous farmers and contribute more substantially to the national food supply chain.
Ayosifam’s initiative stands as a powerful example of how simple, clean energy solutions can drive economic prosperity and foster sustainable agricultural practices in Nigeria. It’s a testament to the potential of harnessing natural resources for local benefit and a clear signal to investors about the lucrative and impactful opportunities within the Nigerian cassava value chain.
