Strengthening agricultural development in Cameroon through stakeholder engagement
19 April 2024
IITA Director General and CGIAR Regional Director for Continental Africa, Dr Simeon Ehui, met with major stakeholders in Cameroon’s agriculture and research during a five-day working visit from 18 to 23 March. Results from the engagement will significantly impact the country as the DG met with government authorities in the agriculture sector to share existing innovations in IITA. The meeting also focused on mechanisms for transforming agriculture through the twin pillars of enhanced research for development and harnessed partnerships for the delivery of agricultural technologies to transform the food sector in Cameroon.
Dr Ehui accompanied by World Bank Director of Agriculture for Central Africa Dr Abel Lufafa, visited Cameroon to strengthen partnerships and advance regional agricultural development. During his stay, he engaged in high-level meetings with notable figures, including the World Bank Director of Operations for Cameroon and Central Africa, the African Development Bank (AfDB) Regional Director for Central Africa, and several Ministers from the Cameroon government.
The visit commenced with a productive meeting between Dr Ehui and Cheick Fantamady Kanté, the World Bank Director of Operations for Cameroon, and Serge Nguessan, AfDB Regional Director for Central Africa. They focused their discussions on crucial collaborations to enhance agricultural development in Cameroon. They outlined plans to improve smallholder farmer productivity, promote sustainable agricultural practices, support rural communities, and strengthen food security in the country. Additionally, they discussed resource mobilization, technical assistance, and partnerships to achieve these objectives and contribute to the overall economic growth and well-being of Cameroon. At the meeting, the AfDB director declared, “AfDB is glad about the ongoing partnership with IITA, and we are glad to take it higher through collaborative efforts and opportunities that will transform the agriculture and food sector in Cameroon and across its continent.”
Dr Ehui also met with LeJeune Mbella Mbella, the Minister of External Relations to discuss the over 50 years partnership between the Government of Cameroon and IITA. “Cameroon and IITA have had long-lasting relations for over 50 years, and we are here to thank the Government of Cameroon for their continuous support. Also, we will discuss more opportunities that can further transform the food system and create employment opportunities for the youths,” Dr Ehui said.
Dr Ehui discussed with Gabriel Mbairobe, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr Taiga, the Minister of Fisheries, Livestock, and Animal Industries, and Madeleine Tchuinte, the Minister of Scientific Research and Innovation. They all underscored the government’s dedication to advancing agricultural development and harnessing the sector’s potential for sustainable growth. The Ministers commended IITA’s contributions to agricultural research and expressed eagerness to collaborate on future projects that benefit local communities.
Following the meetings, Dr Ehui emphasized the importance of partnership and cooperation in driving agricultural transformation. He stated, “Cameroon holds immense potential for agricultural development, and it is through strategic collaborations with key stakeholders that we can unlock this potential and create lasting impact. I am encouraged by the commitment shown by our partners and look forward to working together towards a more resilient and prosperous agricultural sector.”
Dr Ehui also met with IITA Cameroon staff, addressing their concerns and exploring opportunities to enhance their working conditions. The interactive session provided an invaluable platform for open dialogue between Dr Ehui and the staff members, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose within the organization.
IITA Director for Central Africa Hub Zoumana Bamba and IITA Country Representative for Cameroon Komi Fiaboe accompanied him. They all actively listened to the feedback and preoccupations raised by the staff members, emphasizing the importance of ensuring a conducive work environment that nurtures productivity and well-being. Staff members had the opportunity to voice their challenges, ranging from infrastructural needs to training and career development opportunities. He ended the meeting by declaring, “I am deeply committed to ensuring that the working conditions at IITA Cameroon reflect our dedication to excellence and innovation. Your feedback is valuable, and together, we can create a conducive environment enabling each staff member to thrive and contribute meaningfully to our mission.”
Dr Ehui left Cameroon with a shared vision for sustainable agricultural development and inclusive growth, which stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and dedication to making a positive difference in people’s lives across the region.
