World Iyan Carnival: Innovative, Ambitious Project Targeted At Tackling Food Security-Ajayi

Prince Ade Ajayi , an Agribusiness expert has described the World Iyan Carnival an initiative set to be launch in December as an innovative and ambitious project targeted at tackling food security in Nigeria and across Africa.

Ajayi, the convener of the World Iyan Carnival while addressing newsmen on the initiative said the Carnival represents the future of food security in Africa and the world.

He said the initiative aims to cultivate 50 million tuber of yam , a staple food in Nigeria and as a means to promote food production and ensure food security.

The initiative according to him seeks to elevate African cuisine and leverage food as a cultural and economic tool and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

He pointed out the initiative aligns with the Lagos Accord under the chairman of the Lagos state government, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, where the governors of Western Nigeria are committed to advancing food production and security efforts, and will also support the government’s plans to bolster food security.

“By involving both private and public sector partners, this initiative seeks to engage financial institutions and other stakeholders to support sustainable agriculture.

“The World Iyan Carnival team is already working with several financial institutions and welcomes further partnerships in this monumental endeavor.”

Ajayi noted that the World Iyan Carnival is the result of seven years of research and development, driven by a profound passion for African food and social impact.

“It began as a simple idea with a clear objective to celebrate African cuisine while contributing to global food security initiatives, including the ’ Zero Hunger movement.

“This idea quickly evolved into a large-scale project that not only showcases traditional African culinary practices but also addresses food security challenges.”

He said the team behind the World Iyan Carnival embarked on an extensive journey, traveling across various states to explore local culinary traditions, that through documentaries and interviews, the team captured these traditions, laying the groundwork for a project that is both culturally significant and socially impactful.

“Now, after seven years of research, planning, and development, the World Iyan Carnival is ready to launch. This multi-faceted project is structured around four core pillars, each designed to contribute to the overall goals of promoting food security, celebrating African culture, and fostering economic growth through tourism and agriculture.

Speaking further he said the official launch of the transformative initiative would take place in Ado Ekiti in Ekiti state on December 27, 2024.

Similarly, he said the carnival will feature two key events; the Omoge Iyan Pageant, a celebration of African women and their cultural heritage which will showcase contestants who exemplify the rich traditions of their regions.

Another key event according to him is the Iyan Challenge, a competition for African men to demonstrate their expertise in the complete process of Iyan production, from cultivating yams to creating the dish.

He said various groups, individuals, youths and communities across Africa and Africans in diaspora all over the world are eligible to participate by registration which will commence from September.

“All these activities will be displayed in all our social media platforms for interested viewers. This will prepare them to win a fantastic life changing prize at the Grand Finale in December 27th this year.

“A total of 10 finalists; six from the pageant and four from the challenge will be selected, with the winners being named ambassadors of the World Iyan Carnival.

He said that the finalists will also be featured in the epic documentary series that forms the second pillar of the initiative.

Ajayi while speaking on the origin of Iyan epic documentary which delves into the origin and cultural significance of Iyan within African societies will be premiere at the National Theater in Lagos next year, will showcase the history, tradition, and culinary art behind this ancestral dish.

Ajayi noted that the fourth pillar is the development of the Aafin Iyan Resort, the first of its kind in Africa which will combine tourism, culture, history, and heritage, offering visitors an immersive experience into the world of African cuisine and cultural traditions.

Aafin Iyan Resort will be a premier destination that celebrates African identity, providing both educational and leisure opportunities for visitors.

While the initial pillars will be rolled out over the next three years, the World Iyan Carnival according to him is a long-term project with plans for future growth and expansion.

“Additional pillars will be unveiled in the coming years, all centered around the core themes of food security, culture, and tourism. This initiative has the potential to reach over 1.4 billion Africans worldwide, including those in the diaspora and the Caribbean, further establishing it as one of the largest cultural and food security movements of its kind.

“The World Iyan Carnival is a unique blend of heritage and innovation, merging ancestral practices with modern solutions to address global food security issues. We invite the Nigerian government, financial sectors, private industries, and stakeholders to join hands in making this vision a reality.

“Together, we can celebrate African culture, promote sustainable food production, and create lasting social and economic impacts,” he added.