Technology and Development: The Case of A Millet Processing Factory in Zinder, Niger

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Periodical article

Title:	Technology and Development: The Case of A Millet Processing Factory in Zinder, Niger
Author:	Stewart, Bonnie A.
Year:	1982
Periodical:	Journal of African Studies (UCLA)
Volume:	9
Issue:	2
Period:	Summer
Pages:	83-88
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Niger
Subjects:	grain processing Development and Technology Agriculture, Natural Resources and the Environment Economics and Trade
Abstract:	Agricultural development must be based on the type of technology best suited to each country's needs. From this perspective the introduction of a new technology for the processing of millet and sorghum in the Province of Zinder in Niger is evaluated. The millet processing factory was built in Zinder with the expectation of producing flour, biscuits and noodles from millet and sorghum grain which is produced locally. It would also provide new local employment opportunities. However, evidence suggests that the introduction of this new processing technology in Zinder was not built on adequate factor availability. In order to illustrate this, the author examines the operations and evaluates the effectiveness of the Organization for the Processing of Millet (SOTRA-Mil) in Zinder. The evaluation is based on primary data collected in November 1977, which includes personal interviews with SOTRA-Mil's director and staff, site visits and observations of the factory, compilation of available statistical data, and secondary data, published and unpublished reports, official records, and research studies.