The 3rd edition of the All Kassava festival recently took place in Douala, Cameroon, from October 29 to November 1. The event, presided over by Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Gabriel Mbaïrobe, brought together various stakeholders to assess the state of the cassava industry in the country. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Cameroon produces approximately 7 million tons of cassava per year, with over 350,000 producers involved in the sector.
Despite the country's significant production capacity, the industry faces challenges, including limited access to major production basins and a shortage of refrigerated storage facilities and processing units. Yvette Doume, promoter of the festival, called for greater support from the government and decentralized territorial authorities to help realize the sector's potential. She emphasized that producers should not feel like second-class citizens when they travel from their villages to showcase their products.
In response to these concerns, Minister Mbaïrobe highlighted measures being implemented to increase the sector's profitability. Cassava has been identified as a key crop in the presidential import-substitution plan. The National Agency for Standards and Quality (Anor) has developed a standard for cassava flour used in bread making. Additionally, a joint circular has been signed to support the development of the sector.
The All Kassava festival provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the cassava industry. The event showcased the importance of cassava as a major crop in Cameroon and the need for increased investment in the sector. With the right support and investment, the industry has the potential to contribute significantly to the country's economy.
Cameroon's government has expressed its commitment to supporting the cassava sector. The Minister of Agriculture emphasized the importance of developing the sector to create jobs and stimulate economic growth. The government aims to create an enabling environment for producers and processors to operate efficiently and competitively.
The All Kassava festival has become an annual event, celebrating the importance of cassava in Cameroon's agriculture and economy. The festival provides a platform for producers, processors, and other stakeholders to network, share ideas, and showcase their products. This year's event highlighted the progress made in the sector and the challenges that still need to be addressed.
The development of the cassava sector is crucial for Cameroon's economic growth and food security. With the right policies and investments, the sector has the potential to contribute significantly to the country's GDP and provide employment opportunities for thousands of people. The government and stakeholders must work together to address the challenges facing the sector and unlock its full potential.
Key points
- The Cameroonian government aims to boost cassava production and processing through its import-substitution plan.
- The country produces approximately 7 million tons of cassava per year, with over 350,000 producers involved in the sector.
- The sector faces challenges, including limited access to major production basins and a shortage of refrigerated storage facilities and processing units.
