Survey and Identification of Acha Varieties in Some Local Governments of Plateau and Bauchi States, Nigeria

Abstract

A total  of fourteen different acha varieties were identified in a survey carried out in four selected local Governemnts (Bogoro, Barkin Ladi, Mangu and Bokkos) of Bauchi and Plateau state, Nigeria.  They are: Badama, Whey swello, Whey Rwey, Chin ryey, Chidt Kusum/kukum, Jakalak/mara, Chidt fyali/kal others are: Wandat, Achikara, Zor, Nhibang, Nkin, Kurep and Sun.  The locations have their general name for acha which are:Chun, Chidt, Kinh, Forh and Kusuk.  The fourteen varieties identified were all used to produce fermented and non-fermented pap, as it has not been used in pap production before. Farming, harvesting and processing of acha are majorly done manually which is very tedious, as such the major cereal grow in the area is maize.  The large number of people involved in acha production are female with 77% and those with lower educational qualification, (Primary 36.8% and secondary school 33.8%) respectively.  Despite the challenges faced in growing acha, the farmers still hold acha in high esteem compared to other cereals, this has kept the existence of the crop for years.  There is therefore need for the mechanization of acha farming, harvesting and processing to have greater yield meeting the demands of the consumers.