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Joyce Banda, Nigeria’s Jonathan: Cassava can bring Malawi economy good luck

Created on Monday, 10 September 2012 19:48 Written by A MARAPOST CORRESPONDENT

LILONGWE--Pres Joyce Banda said Monday increased cassava production in Malawi could help the economy.

Banda spoke during the national cassava commercialization launch at Njewa in Lilongwe which was also attended by Nigeria’s president Goodluck Jonathan who arrived Monday for a two-day visit.

The Malawi leader said time had come for large scale cassava farming.
“I urge all Malawians to grow cassava because it’s a miracle crop. Those who grow it realize more money and food for their respective families,” said Banda promising cassava farmers full government support “to ensure that problems of poverty and hunger are resolved once and for all in our communities.”

Commenting on the issue, Pres Jonathan said: “I want to assure you the support from my government to ensure that you have realized objectives which you want to achieve through this programme launched today. When I’m in Nigeria, the only bread I eat is the one with cassava.”

Jonathan pointed out that as a drought resistant crop, cassava was better than other crops. Malawi farmers wholly depend on rainfall.

“Cassava is one food that will reduce poverty and increase food security among Malawians,” he said.
Maize is Malawi’s staple food and its economy, driven by agriculture, depends on tobacco which hasn’t done well at the market in recent years.
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Tags: Goodluck Jonathan Joyce Banda