Two Nigerian young inventors from Anambra State have invented a bitter leaf washing machine.
The two talented teenagers from Anambra State, Ubaka Chukwuebuka and Atikpo Chukwuebuka, have developed a prototype bitterleaf washing machine while expecting investments to build the finished product.
The two brothers, who are based in Awka, Anambra State are out to strengthen the country’s agricultural sector using technology, help create employment, and support made-in-Nigeria agenda.
This burning desire pushed them to engage in some tedious menial jobs to raise N125,000 seed capital to source raw materials locally to invent a bitterleaf washing machine they called Oganiihu C².
Also, according to the duo, they actually started working on this project while they were in Secondary School.
Currently, Atikpo is a 200-level Polymer and Textile Engineering Undergraduate of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, while the brother, Ubaka is a 100-Level Polymer and Textile Engineering Undergraduate of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.
The duo are seeking a perfect solution to Nigeria’s farmers’ plights during the processing of the bitter leaf for export.
According to them, this machine will help in easy processing of the food item; getting them ready for both local consumption and export.
The prototype bitter leaf washing machine was nicknamed Oganiihu C².
What is the economic value of bitter leaf that this machine will enhance?
Barely a year ago, Anambra State Government made headlines when it became the first State in Nigeria to export vegetables (Ugu and Onugbu (bitter leaf)) valued at $5m to Europe.
This machine is even more critical in processing bitter leaf for preservation.
For instance, in a PremiumTimes report of December 2016 the Agricultural Fresh Produce Growers and Exporters Association of Nigeria ( AFPGEAN ) says between 55% and 72% of fresh produce grown in the country perish before they can be consumed.
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