AFD proposes solutions for the conservation of agricultural products

Promotion of small processing units, construction of storage units are among other proposals outlined by AFD for the development of the sector.

Post-agricultural losses pose a real risk to farmers in Cameroon and in many African countries.

Similarly, farmers are struggling to cope with accidents due to climatic variations, including epidemics and disasters that can occur in the exercise of their activities.

Construction of storage units, facilitation of access to national markets, sub-regional, promotion of small processing, packaging, etc., are some solutions proposed by Claude Torre, project manager at the Division of agriculture, biodiversity of the sustainable Department of the French Development Agency (AFD) Paris.

According to him, another concern for farmers remains that of funding. Yet he insisted, financing is an important element in the agricultural field, especially at this moment where Cameroon plans to integrate second generation agriculture.

"For this sector to take its place in the process of development of the national economy", added the Economist. Another primordial element comes into play; technology. Unfortunately, the report prepared by the agriculture specialists indicates that currently 40% of farmers still operate in the traditional way.

For members of the association of former students, seminarians, Cameroonian listeners and the Centre of financial studies, economics and banking (Assac-Cefeb), involved in the search for solutions for a better management of the Cameroonian agriculture, the Government and even the private financial sector should get involved by creating, for example, a favourable legal and tax environment and construct adequate infrastructures for the evacuation and disposal of the products.

According to Pierre Kam, President of Cefeb Assac, the association and the AFD are engaged in a series of debates on specific issues that aim to provide an effective contribution to the acceleration of economic growth in Cameroon through agriculture.

Again, Claude Torre proposed that out of public authorities and insurance, producers should begin to join. And the microfinance should also accompany producers who often have limited capabilities despite their potential.

"Support programs are also indispensable for promoters. Producers are also required to surround themselves with credible buyers in order to reassure the bankers in the case of loans. In other climes, smoothing and calamity Fund have been proven", he added.