Describe four favourable characteristics of cassava and list four varieties of fingermillet grown in Kenya.

Here are the answers to the questions from your exam paper:

QUESTION TWO

b) Four favourable characteristics of cassava:

• Drought tolerance: Cassava can grow well in arid and semi-arid regions where other crops fail.
• Adaptability to poor soils: It can thrive in marginal soils with low fertility.
• High carbohydrate yield: Produces a large amount of starchy roots, making it a staple food.
• Pest and disease tolerance: Generally more resistant to pests and diseases compared to other staple crops.
• Flexible harvesting: Roots can be left in the ground for extended periods (up to 2-3 years) without significant spoilage, providing food security.
• Versatile uses: Used for food, animal feed, and industrial purposes (e.g., starch, ethanol).

c) Four varieties of fingermillet grown in Kenya:

• P224
• KNE 686
• IE 2971
• U15
• Gulu E