10th U6+ Consortium of African Universities International Conference

Rural-urban youth migration presents a critical challenge to agricultural sustainability and food security in The Gambia, particularly in the Central River Region South (CRR-South). This study assesses the effects of youth out-migration on the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices and food output in CRR-South, a region identified as a priority area for climate resilience...

The increasing demand for animal protein and the rising cost of conventional feed ingredients necessitate the exploration of sustainable alternative protein sources. Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL), rich in protein and bioactive compounds, offer a promising feed resource. However, limited information exists on its storage stability, particularly in defatted form. This study evaluated...

In a context where artisanal cheese production in Burundi remains constrained by the absence of standardized processes, unstable microbiological quality, and limited nutritional value, this study was undertaken to develop a probiotic-enriched artisanal cheese and to evaluate its physicochemical, microbiological, and sensory characteristics. Four probiotic strains (Lactobacillus plantarum, L....

Cowpea is a strategic and vital crop for developing nations due to its contributions to food security and economic development for farmers. The crop is susceptible to numerous viruses which are spread by insect vectors and seeds causing severe damages to cowpea fields. Seed-borne viruses severely impact agriculture creating significant economic damage and present a huge challenge in the...

This study examined the socio-economic characteristics of tomato farmers, perceived effects of climate change (CC) on production, their training needs between farmers’ competence and importance rating on tomato climate-smart measures. A total of 256 tomato farmers were recruited for the study. A Borich model analysis was employed to identify the training needs of tomato farmers regarding their...

Black soldier fly (BSF), Hermetia illucens L. is a non-vector insect with larvae capable of transforming organic waste streams into high-quality protein biomass. Utilizing these larvae, livestock farmers can significantly cut production costs and boost earnings. For sustainable commercial production of BSF larvae (BSFL) in Nigeria, it is crucial to use organic wastes that are affordable,...

Youth employment remains a major socio-economic challenge in North Central Nigeria despite the employment opportunities available in agriculture. However, youth participation in agricultural activities is constrained by inadequate access to credit facilities, limited modern farming technologies, insecurity in rural communities, and preference for white-collar jobs. This study assessed youths’...

Plantain-based poundo is increasingly promoted as a functional food for individuals managing diabetes and metabolic disorders. Processing conditions, particularly steaming, may alter starch composition, digestibility, and glycemic response, yet cultivar-specific effects remain underexplored. This study examined the impact of steaming parameters and varietal differences (yellow vs. white...

Tropical fruits are important sources of carbohydrates, dietary fibre, essential minerals, vitamins, and natural antioxidants that contribute significantly to food security, nutrition, and human health. However, increasing demand for fresh fruits has encouraged adulteration practices including artificial ripening using ethylene gas, addition of artificial sweeteners, and application of...