The Cameroun–FIDA partnership has yielded remarkable results, with agricultural output from smallholder farms showing substantial growth over the past seven years. These achievements were highlighted during a joint review workshop in Yaoundé on July 16, 2026, where officials assessed progress under the Country Strategic Opportunities Program (COSOP) for 2019–2026 and laid groundwork for the next phase.
strategic investments driving rural development
COSOP, designed by the Government of Cameroun with support from the International Fund for Agricultural Development (FIDA), set ambitious targets to enhance productivity and living conditions for rural populations—particularly women and youth. On July 16, stakeholders gathered to evaluate outcomes and refine strategies for the 2027–2032 program, ensuring alignment with national priorities and sustainable development goals.
key achievements in agricultural productivity
Under the “sustainably increasing productivity and output of small farms and rural enterprises” pillar, 98% of targets were met. Over 10,500 farmers—49% youth and 39% women—now belong to 139 consolidated cooperatives specializing in rice and onion production. While the goal was to include 10,000 members by 2024, with at least half led by women or youth, the program exceeded expectations.
Environmental and social management plans were integrated into all projects. In the Youth Agropastoral Entrepreneurship Promotion Program (PEA-Jeunes), 99% of participants adopted new techniques, surpassing the 50% target. However, hydro-agricultural land development fell short: only 649 hectares (43%) of the planned 1,600 hectares were prepared for rice and onion cultivation.
record yield improvements
The Second Agricultural Sector Development Support Program (PADFA II) reported impressive gains:
- Lowland rice yields rose to 3.7 tonnes per hectare (74% of the 5-tonne goal), while upland rice reached 2.5 tonnes (63% of the 4-tonne target).
- Onion production hit 18 tonnes per hectare (86% of the 21-tonne objective).
- Total paddy rice output reached 52,996 tonnes (70.38% of the 74,750-tonne forecast), while onion bulb production hit 45,000 tonnes (52.47% of the 85,562-tonne target).
climate-smart agriculture and policy reforms
The ecosystem-based adaptation and climate-smart practices module achieved 100% compliance. A strategic plan for 17 reforms was finalized, including a draft law on agropastoral sector orientation and three new strategies to support bamboo restoration policies.
looking ahead to 2027–2032
The original COSOP was approved in 2019 for 2019–2024 and extended to December 31, 2026, following a mid-term review in 2021. The upcoming program will build on these successes, targeting even greater impact for Cameroun’s rural communities.
