Revolutionizing Livestock Farming in Cameroon: The Power of Productive Partnerships
The World Bank-financed Livestock Development Project (PRODEL) is transforming the livestock sector in Cameroon through innovative partnerships that have significantly boosted productivity and market access.
The initiative leverages two key models: the Productive Partnership Model (PPM) and the Community-Driven Development Model (CDDM), fostering collaboration between the government, local producers, and the private sector. These strategies aim to enhance productivity, sustainability, and economic growth.
For Souleymane Aba, a chicken farmer from the Adamawa region, PRODEL has been life-changing. With technical support and a clear business plan, his production capacity surged from 8,000 to 28,000 chickens per year. Additionally, securing a contract with a hypermarket in Douala has provided him with market stability and fair pricing.
“With a clear business plan, I now have better visibility on my sales, income, and family expenses,” Aba stated.
The PPM focuses on boosting productivity and commercialization by providing financial backing through matching grants. Covering up to 60% of project costs, with a ceiling of $150,000 per subproject, this model promotes financial discipline and innovation. So far, 506 business plans have been financed, leading to a 29% increase in sales across targeted value chains.
Key achievements include a 76% increase in broiler live weight production, an 80% rise in the number of weanlings per sow per year, and a 527% jump in milk production per cow annually. Over 38,000 producers have adopted improved technologies and climate-smart practices.
This approach empowers communities by improving livestock productivity, reducing environmental impact, and enhancing market infrastructure. Through strategic financial support to decentralized organizations, local governments, and communities actively participate in development initiatives.
The installation of 100 young veterinary doctors and the construction of vaccination parks have significantly improved livestock health services. “The proximity to veterinarians has been a big relief, especially during calving and transhumance,” said Amadou Mohamadou, a shepherd from Lagdo.
PRODEL’s initiatives are fostering social inclusion, economic prosperity, and environmental sustainability. With enhanced service quality, increased investments, and improved infrastructure, Cameroon’s livestock sector is poised for continued growth and resilience against climate change and other challenges
