Edible oil, animal feed and heating fuel are viable cotton by-products in Africa. Cotton by-products provide additional income-earning opportunities for farmers, if investments are inclusive. Cotton is grown mainly for its fibre or lint, which is the raw material in cotton textiles.
Where does Africa’s cotton lint come from?
In Benin, Burkina Faso, Chad and Mali, Africa’s four major cotton-producing LDCs, 70% of their 2020 lint remains stuck in mills, in transit hubs or in ports. Diversifying the cotton into different products, like soap and animal feed can generate sustainable economic and employment opportunities.
Why is Africa important for cotton production?
Africa contributes about 8% of the global cotton production. In African continent, there are total six cotton basins among which West African basin is the most important. Sub-Saharan Africa has a climate favorable for pest growth and this results in severe attack of pests on cotton and subsequent yield losses.
How much cotton is produced in Africa?
Indeed, Africa produces about 2.5 million tonnes of cottonseed, which is 5.8% of global production. Only 75% of the seed is crushed for oil and seed-meal, and that means that 25% of cottonseed produced in Africa goes unused. The estimated value of that unused seed is about US$237 million, most of which is in West Africa.