From May 08 to 17, 2025, a large number of farmers in the East Cameroon region benefited from capacity-building in agro-ecological practices.
A total of 40 people, including 16 women, were trained in 15 agroecological practices specific to agricultural production, livestock breeding and nutrition. The training modules were developed on the basis of needs identified during the selection of beneficiaries, and according to the specific characteristics of the East Cameroon region.
“This activity is part of the project ”Scaling up agroecology to reinforce food and nutritional security in 04 departments of the East and Far North regions of Cameroon (Agroecology+)“ implemented by the Support Service for Local Development Initiatives ( SAILD) with the support of the German organization Bread for the World” explained Kevin Boucheke, in charge of monitoring and evaluation. The objectives were clear: “Our aim was to strengthen the capacities of selected model producers in agroecological practices specific to their environment, and to retrain them in the organization and running of replication sessions” he continued, adding that a total of 40 people, including 16 women, were trained in 15 agroecological practices specific to agricultural production, animal breeding and nutrition. The training modules were developed on the basis of the needs identified during the selection of beneficiaries and the specific characteristics of the East Cameroon region.
According to instructor Sorelle Massaa, the courses were both theoretical and practical, enabling the learners to be better equipped: “We covered various modules in agro-ecological production, including plant-based bio-fertilization, securing sites against bush fires, seed conservation techniques, and good cultural practices (rotation system with legumes and crop associations with legumes)” she detailed. Sessions on processing, small-scale livestock farming and nutrition were also on the agenda. “We also developed pedagogical aspects, participative and interactive animation techniques so that they can easily disseminate what they have learned and conduct replications well” she added.
Involved participants
Beneficiaries from Belabo, Bonis, Bertoua, Dimako and Guekong, among others, welcomed the initiative. According to the SAILD-Bertoua Branch Manager, the lessons took place in a setting conducive to simplified learning. “We favored active listening and simulations, with less theory and more practice. The participants appreciated the different modules. They can now put them into practice on their farms, and the big challenge is to pass them on to other growers” asserted Stéphanie Koumdjala Akono.
Elysée Bakinga Nga explains: “I’m now able to make compost and bio-insect repellent. I intend to apply these agroecological practices on my farm” he confides with pride. Claubantine Madjika, for her part, recognizes the importance of a balanced diet: “I’ve learned how to prepare porridge enriched with soya and peanuts; to detect malnutrition in children aged 6 to 59 months; and to design a weekly balanced meal plan for a family” she reveals.
n addition, a guided tour of the Kaïgama farm school provided learners with an opportunity to gain practical insight and immerse themselves in the application of the knowledge acquired during the theoretical sessions. The post-training period will be dedicated to technical follow-up and the provision of kits (inputs, materials, equipment) to these participants, who are thus beginning their transition to the status of replicators.
- Sharon Maché
