October 29, 2013

Cameroon invests US$105 million in boosting corn, cassava, sorghum production

Fuelled by the XAF50 billion (US$105 million) investment package put at the disposal of stakeholders by the World Bank and the government of Cameroon, corn, cassava and sorghum productions are expected to receive a significant boost in the country in the years ahead.

The money is within the framework of an investment and agricultural development project. The World Bank is contributing XAF40 billion (US$84 million) and the government of Cameroon XAF10 billion (US$21 million). The first phase of the programme runs from 2014-19.

In order to boost production and the competitiveness of the sector, farmers are expected to be grouped into common initiative groups, federations and cooperatives during this period. It is through these associations that projects will be financed.

Reports say a Chinese firm has been solicited to sharpen the skills of stakeholders and ensure technology transfer.