Transforming Agrifood Systems in West and Central Africa Initiative

Nshimiyimana, C. 2024. Transforming Agrifood Systems in West and Central Africa Initiative. International Potato Center. 20 p. DOI: 10.4160/cip.2024.12.0011

There is strong evidence that consumers are increasingly shifting toward nutritious foods. According to a recent consumer survey, Rwandan consumers prefer OFSP-based products because they contain a high level of vitamin A. However, there are relatively few processing industries that produce OFSP-based products. In response, CIP and its partners took the initiative to support five Rwandan SMEs with manual processing equipment (puree pro and cut-a-chip). In this regard, follow-up field visits were undertaken during week 44 to evaluate the machines' performance, defects, and suggestions for improvements. Semi-structured questionnaires were used as an instrument to gain insights about machine use by SMEs, and it had been developed based on previous reports and literature. It has been found that machines were good in condition, with no breakdowns or maintenance issues. Users of machines have demonstrated that they have helped them to produce high-quality purees. Furthermore, it was found that two SMEs were struggling with how machines should be used, claiming that they did not receive a machine catalogue, and that cut-a-chip was incompatible with their production system. During these field visits, it became apparent that cleaning procedures for machines were different. Users of the machines have noted that the puree pro produces less puree amount and that an electrical version is required. They have also stated that they needed practical workshops on how to operate machines, OFSP processing, food hygiene, and standards.