The article discusses the potential of cassava as a solution to food and energy security in poor countries, especially in the face of rising food and oil prices. Cassava is a drought-resistant, starchy tuber that feeds about 800 million people worldwide. Despite its benefits, it has been neglected due to its labor-intensive harvesting process and the perception as a 'poor man's crop'. The Kenya Agricultural Research Institute (KARI) has developed new varieties and, through the European Union-funded KASAL project, is encouraging farmers to form Commercial Cassava Villages. This initiative has led to increased production and the use of cassava in various industries. The article also highlights the success of Thailand in cassava production and the need for governments to support the industry to motivate farmers.

The article discusses the challenges faced by Kenya and other African cities due to rapid population growth and urbanisation. It references the UN-Habitat report 'The State of African Cities 2010', which projects a tripling of African city populations in the next 40 years. The growth has led to issues such as inadequate clean water, food, shelter, and infrastructure. The article highlights the strain on amenities and services due to the urban growth rate and the need for urgent action and proper planning to manage the situation. It also touches on issues of corruption and mismanagement within African governments, using Kenya as a case study, and stresses the importance of informed planning based on accurate data, which is challenging due to the mobility of slum populations.