Cameroon, a significant producer of meat and milk in the region, is facing a decline in production. The country's livestock sector, primarily composed of cattle, poultry, pork, goat, and sheep, has seen a sharp decline in recent years. According to the Ministry of Livestock, Fisheries and Animal Industry, beef production stood at 68,902 tons, while chicken, poultry farmers produced 38,914 tons, and 27,914 tons of pork was produced. Goat and sheep meat production stood at 21,249 and 15,931 tons, respectively.
The decline in production is largely attributed to the use of rudimentary and archaic production methods by local farmers. Cattle, the main source of meat, has witnessed a sharp decline, with production dropping by 27.5 percent between 2023 and 2024. In 2023, the country produced 130,000 tons of beef, which decreased to 94,300 tons in 2024 and further declined to 69,902 tons in 2025. Environmental and climate change factors, such as degradation of pastures and water scarcity, have also contributed to the decline.
The Ministry of Livestock, Fisheries and Animal Industry, and other experts have identified several factors contributing to the decline in beef production. Insecurity, cattle theft, and lack of investment in the sector are also blamed for the shrinking production. The extensive transhumance system practiced by 90 percent of cattle breeders leads to weight loss and low productivity. Experts say a zebu takes 5-7 years to reach 250kg carcass in Cameroon, compared to 18-24 months in Brazil or South Africa.
The archaic production methods used in Cameroon result in low output and high calf mortality rates. The lack of artificial inseminations, regular vaccinations, and cold chain facilities also contributes to the decline in productivity. The local Goudali, White Fulani, and Red Fulani species are resistant but produce low meat yield. Meat loss due to poor conservation is also a significant issue, with about 30 percent of meat loss recorded due to traditional slaughtering methods.
Cameroon's milk production is also facing similar challenges, with low productivity despite high demand. Official figures indicate that 176,618 tons of milk were produced in 2023, which slightly increased to 180,000 tons in 2024 and 183,286 tons in 2025. The deficit stands at 120,000 to 450,000 tons every year, which is filled by imports. Cameroon spends a significant amount, about FCFA 75.6 billion, to import milk.
The country's livestock sector requires modernization to improve productivity and meet demand. The government and experts are advocating for the adoption of improved production methods, including artificial inseminations, regular vaccinations, and cold chain facilities. Investment in the sector is also necessary to address the challenges facing the industry. The modernization of production practices will help increase productivity, reduce meat and milk imports, and improve the livelihoods of livestock farmers.
The decline in meat and milk production has significant implications for the country's food security and economy. The shortage of meat and milk affects household consumption patterns, budget, and food prices in restaurants and hotels. The government and stakeholders must work together to address the challenges facing the livestock sector and implement strategies to improve productivity and meet demand.
Key points
- Cameroon's meat and milk production has been declining due to archaic methods and environmental factors.
- The country's livestock sector requires modernization to improve productivity and meet demand.
- The decline in production has significant implications for the country's food security and economy.
