1.2 Industrial utilization of cassava roots Processing of agricultural products in Nigeria is as old as farming itself. In Nigeria, traditional foods processed at home or in small-scale cottage operations constitute the principal mode of utilization of cassava. Commercial livestock producers are fast adopting the use of cassava processed by-products in livestock feeding, appreciating its great potential in feed formulations. Cassava is also useful in several other industries, such as baking, and brewing but the domestic consumption of cassava products has. resulted in limited availability of cassava products for industrial use. In most parts of rural Nigeria, division of labour within the household is gender-specific and according to age.
Women play a prominent role in agricultural production.
The extent of their involvement in agricultural production, and their contribution to the household food basket vary from one ethnic group to another. However, there are characteristics which are common throughout. Also the reduction of the fallow period has made land clearing and preparation easier and increased women's involvement in such activities. They are almost entirely responsible for processing agricultural commodities. Women also play a dominant role in marketing of cassava produce.