Inside this post ...
Give me cassava any day
Ugandans should eat more cassava if bread is expensive according to President Yoweri Museveni.
Speaking to worker’s unions and government officials during the international Labour Day Celebrations held at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, President Museveni urged Ugandans to stop complaining about the scarcity of wheat and instead munch on muwogo (cassava).
“If there is no bread eat muwogo (cassava). Ugandans really confuse themselves. If you’re complaining that there’s no bread or wheat, please eat muwogo. I don’t eat bread myself,” said Museveni.
What’s the root cause of Museveni’s call to action
Uganda is among African countries battling with a sharp shortage of grain which has resulted in a sharp rise in food prices following Russia invasion of Ukraine. While still still reeling from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, Ugandan households are now facing an unprecedented squeeze on finances.
Also Read: Sumptuous poison? Kenyans warned against consuming noodles (Indomie) by Comesa
President Museveni has admitted that many Ugandan households will be forced to make difficult choices as fuel prices, diesel and consumer goods continue to surge. In 2020, the East African country spent $119 million on wheat imports alone.
According to Global Press Journal, Uganda is one of almost 50 countries dependent on Russia and Ukraine for some wheat imports. The ‘Pearl of Africa’ does produce its own wheat but not enough to meet the country’s demand.
Why we should all heed Museveni and go cassavas
There’s indeed truth in President Museveni remarks that Cassava is better than bread. Cassava, an edible starchy root with a nutty flavor, is a delicacy not only in Uganda but is a staple crop in many developing countries of West Africa, Latin America, and Caribbean regions.
Different people call it by different names from muwogo, yuca, manioc, mandioca, casabe, and tapioca proving just how popular it is across the globe.
Cassava is highly versatile, nutrient-packed and energy-dense crop that is an excellent source of vitamin C, which is great for supporting immune health as well as natural collagen production.
In the same breath, every serving of cassava offers antioxidants including anti-inflammatory phenolic compounds not to mention it is a great source of gut-healthy fiber which is associated with better blood sugar control, reduced blood cholesterol levels, and overall improved gut health.
About the Author
