The inclusion of the Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato into daily
diet remains a continuous clamour to reduce the high death rate among kids ages
1-5 who are synonymous to Vitamin A deficiency as the International Potato
Center visited the Gosa market Abuja with drama and choir group to sensitize
market men and women on the importance of OFSP for its beta carotene content
The country Representative/Technical Advisor for the
International Potato Center Dr Olapeju o, Phorbee, during the sensitization
show said “the idea was to enlighten people,
a lot of people are yet to be aware of OFSP and its importance, and it
very pertinent for everyone present at the market to take back a message home
to their families, colleagues, friends and loved ones on the importance of
OFSP, health and economic wise”
Dr. Olapeju added she was convinced that the produce will
soon be generally accepted and circulated round the 36 states of the Federation
having seen consumers coming around to ask questions, and also tasting the
fresh Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato. Despite the fact that OFSP was new to many
of them 2 bags out of 3 bags that was brought for the market sensitization show
were sold.
Mrs Mary Iheonu, a staff of the Agriculture Development
Project (ADP) f.c.t and Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato processor also added she
discovered that the crop has a lot of potentials in the processing industry
adding there is nutrient attached to the OFSP vines that everyone must catch on
in order to stay healthy.
Ruth Ineli a trader at the market also told Food Farm News
that she likes the Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato, because it tastes like carrot
with natural sugar. She also said she prefers the OFSP species than the other
sweet potato species. She also advised that Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato be
circulated round the country, so that it can be available for both the poor and
the rich.
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