Cameroon: Over 200 Farmers in Meme Benefit from SOWEDA’s Agricultural Support

By Ngunyi Sonita Nwohtazie

BUEA, Cameroon – The South West Development Authority (SOWEDA) has once again demonstrated its commitment to boosting agricultural productivity in the South West Region, this time extending vital support to farmers in Meme Division under the PULCCA Project.

Following the successful distribution of production kits and livestock materials to more than 400 farmers in Fako Division, SOWEDA has now reached out to over 200 farmers in Meme, providing them with organic fertilisers and maize threshers aimed at enhancing productivity.

The official distribution ceremony took place in Mabanda, Kumba III, and was chaired by the Second Assistant SDO (SDO) for Meme, Hermia Lingue. The event brought together administrative authorities, municipal officials, and traditional leaders, all of whom applauded SOWEDA for its continued dedication to empowering rural communities.

 “I am very delighted with SOWEDA’s presence here today because these farm tools and inputs will go a long way to alleviate the challenges faced by vulnerable farmers," Hermia Linque remarked. "It is important for the beneficiaries to take good care of these materials, as they will help increase productivity," she added.

The Mayor of Kumba III Council, Dr Mokwelle Isaac, equally hailed the initiative, describing it as timely and impactful. He said: “A big thank you to SOWEDA for choosing to visit Kumba III and for donating essential farm equipment to our farmers. With these threshers, the production process will become easier and more efficient, ultimately increasing farmers’ income,” he stated.

Representing the SOWEDA General Manager, Baloko Benson, reiterated the organisation’s commitment to supporting farmers across the region. He explained that as an implementation partner of the PULCCA Project, executed in collaboration with the Government of Cameroon and funded by the World Bank, SOWEDA’s goal is to ensure that smallholder farmers have access to the tools and resources necessary for sustainable agricultural growth.

“We have been in the field, and after distributing maize seeds to farmers, we thought it wise to complement that effort by providing maize threshers and organic fertilisers to boost yields,” Mr Baloko said.

Beyond input distribution, SOWEDA's interventions also focus on improving farm-to-market access roads. Addressing long-standing concerns about the Loum–Kumba road, Baloko reassured the population that rehabilitation works will soon resume.

“This road is one of the most strategic routes for farmers in Meme, especially for transporting produce like cocoa and plantain. We reassure the population that work will resume in October,” he affirmed.

Several beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the support, noting that the assistance would have a direct impact on their productivity. “I have always heard of organic fertilisers, and receiving them free of charge today will greatly improve my production,” said Pastor Ajebe Jimmy, a farmer in Kumba.

"I also received a thresher, which will make my work easier. I sincerely thank SOWEDA for this gesture, especially towards vulnerable farmers like us," another beneficiary added.

The PULCCA Project, which stands for Project for the Emergency Response to the Food Crisis in Cameroon, is being implemented across six regions of the country. It prioritises vulnerable farming communities.  Through SOWEDA’s continuous field interventions, hundreds of farmers in the South West Region are gaining renewed hope and improved capacity, contributing significantly to Cameroon’s food security and economic resilience.