A Historic Day for Agriculture in Cameroon
On October 22, 2024, the picturesque town of Santchou became the epicenter of agricultural innovation as it hosted the technical launch of the Rice Value Chain Development Project. This momentous event was presided over by the esteemed Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr. Gabriel MBAIROBE in the presence of the Governors of the North West and West Regions, the Presidents of the West Regional Council and North West Regional Assembly, the Country Representative of IsDB, (main sponsors of the project), the MPs of Santchou, the S.D.O for Menoua, D.O. & Mayor of Santchou, the rank and file of the West region, technical staff of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, traditional authorities in the area, Rice Cooperatives, stakeholders on the Rice Value Chain, the population of Santchou and its enviros as well as other distinguished guests.
Interventions from Key Stakeholders
The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as the Mayor of Santchou, Mr. Francois NGOUBENE, opened the proceedings, welcoming all present and expressing his heartfelt appreciation for the government’s dedication to enhancing agriculture in the region as a whole and in Santchou in particular. He expressed his gratitude to the government for prioritizing agriculture and rural development in the region and highlighted the significance of the project to the local economy. His remarks set the tone for a day filled with hope and expectation.
Next, the President of the West Rice Cooperative Association, Prof. Anaclet FOMETHE took the stage. He passionately spoke about the challenges faced by farmers emphasizing how the project would provide essential resources and support to improve their livelihoods and how this project aims to provide solutions through better practices, technology, and support systems. He urged the rice farmers to join forces and pool both human and material resources and adhere to the prescriptions of the donors, so as to enjoy the benefits of the project. He was positive that the project will change the agricultural landscape of the area and most of all, bring innovation to the rice sector, with best and modern practices to increase both the quantity and quality of rice in the area.
A notable contribution came from Mme Brigitte EMAMBOT, Parliamentarian from Santchou, who reiterated government’s commitment to empowering farmers and ensuring food security in the country. She was particularly elated that rice farming was returning to Santchou after about 30 years and was excited at the opportunities for youths and women in the area and especially about the fact that the project will put food on the tables of the inhabitants of Satchou and its environs. She called on the population to take advantage of this once in a life time opportunity to improve on the quality of their lives.
The President of the West Regional Council, Dr. Jules FOCKA FOCKA also addressed the audience, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and collaboration among all stakeholders in the agricultural sector. He was excited that the West was on the map of the Rice Value Chain Development Project and promised to give the necessary support to see the project come to reality.
Project Presentation
A pivotal moment came during the presentation of the project by the National Project Coordinator, Mr. MULUH Gregory NGUH, who detailed the objectives, methodologies, and expected outcomes of the Rice Value Chain Development Project. The coordinator outlined how the project would enhance production efficiency, improve market access, and ultimately increase the income of rice farmers in the region and the country as a whole. He highlighted the social amenities that are envisaged in the execution of the project. These include rural electrification, the construction of farm to market roads, schools and hospitals. Rice farmers also applauded the news that they will be trained on modern farm practices and cooperative management as well as granted access to loans to enable them successfully and effectively increase the quality and quantity of their yield.
The Launch
The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr. Gabriel MBAIROBE, then took the rostrum for his launch speech, to emphasize the significance of the Rice Value Chain Development Project as a catalyst for economic growth and sustainability. He expressed his confidence in the farmers of Santchou, and the country as a whole, urging them to embrace the innovative practices that the project would introduce. He highlighted the government’s commitment to providing ongoing support and resources, ensuring that farmers could thrive in a competitive market. He was particularly grateful to the donors of the project, the Islamic Development Bank, OPEC Fund, the government of Cameroon and the other multinationals who decided to invest in the Agricultural sector in Cameroon. He revealed that one of the main aims of the project is to make Cameroon an exporter of Rice by the time this project wraps up after 5 years.
It was on this high note the Minister announced: “I now declare the Rice Value Chain Development Project launched in Santchou, this 22nd day of October 2024.”
Symbolic Rice Planting
In a powerful symbolic gesture of commitment to the project, the Minister of Agriculture, along with the governors of the North West and West Regions, and the President of the West Regional Council, participated in a ceremonial rice planting exercise at one of the project implementation sites in Santchou. This act not only marked the official commencement of the project but also represented hope for a prosperous agricultural future for Cameroon. This activity was particularly significant in Santchou as the community had abandoned rice farming for over 30years!
Cultural Celebration and Fanfare
The event was graced by the presence of over 15 dance groups from Santchou, Bangorain, the North West Region, the Centre, South and East Regions of Cameroon, with vibrant performances that showcased the rich cultural heritage of the country. Numerous rice cooperatives were present, embodying the unity and collective effort needed to drive agricultural advancement.
The presence of traditional authorities signified their acceptance of the initiative and underscored the project’s significance in preserving local customs while promoting modern agricultural practices.
Conclusion
The technical launch of the Rice Value Chain Development Project in Santchou was not just a milestone for agriculture in the country as a whole and Santchou in particular, but was aslo a celebration of community, collaboration, and cultural heritage. With the commitment of government officials, local leaders, and farmers alike, the project promises to bring transformative changes to rice production in the Cameroon, paving the way for a more sustainable and prosperous agricultural landscape and ensuring food security.