Unlocking the Potential of Cashew: SUMMIT POST Interviewed the National President of National Apex of Cashew Farmers, Processors, and Marketing Cooperative Limited, Yunusa Gabriel Enemali
SUMMIT POST: Can you introduce yourself and tell us about your role in the cashew industry?
Yunusa Gabriel Enemali: My name is Yunusa Gabriel Enemali, and I am the President of the National Apex of Cashew Farmers, Processors, and Marketing Cooperative Limited.
SUMMIT POST: What makes cashew unique, and what benefits does it offer?*
Yunusa Gabriel Enemali: Cashew is a unique crop that provides economic benefits, health benefits, and environmental benefits. It’s a climate-resilient crop that can thrive in various conditions, making it an excellent choice for farmers.
SUMMIT POST: How does cashew contribute to environmental benefits, specifically in terms of climate change?*
Yunusa Gabriel Enemali: Cashew trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it in their biomass and soil. This makes them an essential tool in the fight against climate change. We call it carbon credit, and farmers who plant cashew trees can benefit from this program.
SUMMIT POST: What role can cashew play in promoting sustainable livelihoods and economic empowerment?*
Yunusa Gabriel Enemali: Cashew production provides income opportunities for farmers, processors, and traders. It’s a valuable crop that can be sold locally or exported to other countries, generating revenue for those involved in its production and trade.
SUMMIT POST: How can the government support the growth of the cashew industry in Nigeria?*
Yunusa Gabriel Enemali: We need the government to partner with us to develop the cashew industry. We propose a national program to plant 10 million cashew trees over the next 10 years. This will not only help combat climate change but also provide employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth.
SUMMIT POST: What’s the potential for international cooperation in promoting the cashew industry?*
Yunusa Gabriel Enemali: We want to partner with international corporations and the global cashew industry to share best practices and technology. This will enable us to learn from other countries and adopt strategies that have been successful in promoting sustainable cashew production.
SUMMIT POST: What’s your vision for the future of the cashew industry in Nigeria?*
Yunusa Gabriel Enemali: I believe cashew is really the diamond from the tree, and that is why it matters for government to take every action, not just action, deliberate action. We can make Nigeria green, take care of the ecosystem, and make farmers and communities prosperous.