The Cameroonian government is working to enhance the production and transformation of cassava, a crop with significant potential for growth and development. The recent third edition of the International Cassava Festival, "All Kassava," held in Douala from October 29 to November 1, 2026, aimed to rethink the approach to cassava production and explore its economic, industrial, food, and commercial dimensions. According to the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Gabriel Mbairobe, the goal is to go beyond simple agricultural production and consider cassava in all its aspects.
Cameroon currently produces approximately seven million tons of cassava annually, with over 350,000 producers involved in the sector. The government's Strategy for Rural Sector Development and the National Agricultural Investment Plan 2020-2030 forecast a production increase to 10 million tons by 2030, with yields expected to reach 20 tons per hectare. To achieve these targets, the government is focusing on improving productivity, access to quality seeds and equipment, and promoting good agricultural practices.
Despite the significant production levels, post-harvest losses are estimated at 30%, highlighting the need for improved processing and transformation. The government considers transformation as a key area for development, with cassava identified as a priority crop to reduce wheat imports. A new standard, NC 6334:2024, has been established for cassava flour, and a joint circular has been issued requiring bakeries to incorporate at least 5% cassava flour into bread production.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and the Ministry of Commerce are working together to promote cassava transformation in various industrial sectors, including biscuit production and agro-food processing. These efforts aim to increase the value added to cassava production and create new economic opportunities for farmers and processors.
The government's import substitution plan aims to reduce Cameroon's reliance on imported goods, particularly wheat, and promote domestic production. By supporting cassava production and transformation, the government hopes to generate economic growth, create jobs, and improve food security.
The International Cassava Festival has provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss the challenges and opportunities in the cassava sector. The event has brought together producers, processors, and policymakers to share experiences and develop strategies for improving cassava production and transformation.
The Cameroonian government's efforts to boost cassava production and transformation are expected to have a positive impact on the country's economy and food security. With the right strategies and investments, cassava has the potential to become a major driver of economic growth and development in Cameroon.
Key points
- The Cameroonian government aims to increase cassava production to 10 million tons by 2030.
- Post-harvest losses in the cassava sector are estimated at 30%.
- Bakeries are required to incorporate at least 5% cassava flour into bread production.
