Fura with a Difference: A modernized Way
Date
2020
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Abstract
The sorghum sector in Nigeria is experiencing rapid growth and presents lucrative opportunities for entrepreneurs. With a high demand for sorghum in brewing, food processing, and local consumption, the sector has attracted a private investment of €60 million. Regional grain aggregators facilitate the supply side, connecting smallholder farmers and local traders to large-scale processors. Sorghum is also processed into a traditional meal called Fura, primarily consumed in northern Nigeria. However, the sorghum processing industry faces gender-based constraints, including limited access to funds, unhygienic practices, seasonal sales fluctuations, lack of equipment, and cultural barriers. To address these challenges, the 2SCALE program, a public-private partnership incubator, provides support services such as hygiene training, financial literacy training, seasonal forecasting, and women-friendly training. Additionally, marketing strategies, branding, packaging, and improving transportation for processors are recommended to expand market reach and increase profitability. By integrating more women processors and addressing the sector's specific needs, the sorghum industry can further empower women and improve rural livelihoods in Nigeria.
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Keywords
Sorghum, Partnerships, Value chains