Would you like to invest in agriculture? Well, you are in luck. Cameroon’s cassava is an agricultural product from which you can benefit. 

The Republic of Cameroon is in the center of sub-Saharan Africa. Agriculture is Cameroon’s economy’s mainstay and employs about 70% of its workforce. It produces coffee, cotton, cocoa, and cassava. Often called “Africa in miniature,” Cameroon has bits of the entire African continent. In this blog, we took a closer look and found some exciting opportunities for investors in Cameroon’s cassava. 

Cassava, scientifically known as Manihot esculenta, is a woody shrub native to South America but has become a staple food in many parts of Africa, including Cameroon. It is known for its carbohydrate-rich roots and its drought tolerance. These factors make it a reliable crop in varied climates. In Cameroon, cassava goes beyond just being food. It is a cultural symbol, present at almost every meal in some form, whether as boiled yucca, fufu, or garri.

It is a vital crop in Cameroon. It serves both food and industrial needs. It thrives across the country, with significant cultivation seen in the regions around Douala and Yaoundé. These regions have favorable climatic conditions and soil types. Cassava stands as a cornerstone in Cameroon’s agriculture, reflecting its adaptability and resilience.

The journey from cassava farming to market distribution highlights its economic potential. Currently, a significant portion of Cameroon’s cassava is sold as raw or minimally processed goods. Processed cassava, such as starch, flour, or chips, presents higher market value and extended shelf life. These products are beginning to make a mark in international markets. It is particularly used among consumers seeking gluten-free options.

Cameroon’s tropical climate and fertile soil provide the perfect conditions for cassava cultivation. These make Cameroon one of the top producers in Africa. The regions of the West, Northwest, and Southwest are particularly significant. Here, smallholder farmers, the backbone of cassava production, cultivate the crop mostly using traditional methods. These farmers are integral not only to the agricultural sector but also to the rural communities.

The farmers face challenges such as access to high-quality seeds and effective farming practices. Due to these challenges, they are unable to meet the annual demand of about 60,000 tons/yearly. However, initiatives like the Technologies for African Agriculture Transformation (TAAT) program aim to enhance these practices. This program was developed by the African Development Bank (AfDB). It provides farmers with improved varieties and training, which are crucial for boosting production.

Cameroon is a significant player in the regional cassava market. It primarily exports processed products like gari and dried cassava chips. The demand for cassava products remains high both locally and in neighboring regions and European markets. In recent years, the production of cassava in Cameroon reached approximately 6.27 million tons. This shows its pivotal role in the national and regional agricultural landscapes​. There has also been a steady increase in production over the years. This growth in production shows both the expansion of cassava cultivation areas and improvements in farming practices.

The demand for cassava and its derivative products in Cameroon outgrows the supply. This is particularly for processed products like cassava flour. The annual demand for cassava flour is about 60,000 tons, while the current production is only around 500 tons annually. This gap indicates a huge market potential for new entrants and existing players in the processing sector. And your calculated investment can help you become a key player in the cassava industry.

Cassava is not only a staple food for millions in Cameroon but also a critical cash crop. It is crucial for both rural livelihoods and the urban food supply, particularly in processed forms like gari, fufu, and flour. While the domestic market consumes a significant portion of cassava produced, there is also a notable export market, primarily targeting the sub-regional markets and occasionally European countries. Processed products such as gari and dried cassava chips are the main exports​.

Despite its potential, the cassava industry in Cameroon faces several challenges. 

One is poor productivity due to the use of non-improved cassava varieties. 

There is also limited access to advanced processing technologies. 

Furthermore, inadequate funding for smallholder farmers and processors results in lower production compared to Cameroon’s potential.

Additionally, logistical and infrastructural issues hinder the efficient distribution and marketing of cassava​.

To address these challenges, there are various initiatives by the government and international organizations. These aim to improve cassava production and processing in Cameroon. They plan on providing better cassava varieties. They also focus on enhancing farmer training and improving access to markets and processing equipment. All of these will help improve the production and explore the full potential of Cameroon in terms of cassava production.

Investments in cassava processing can significantly affect local communities by creating jobs, developing skills, and stimulating economic growth. Considering that there is a gap in the market, investors can help the farmers tackle these challenges and bridge the gap. This will result in high gains for the investors. Not only that, but it will also help improve the lives of the farmers who depend on cassava production.

Investing in Cameroon’s cassava industry is a promising opportunity. Although this industry has great potential, it remains largely unexplored. Cassava is not just a staple food in the region; it’s also a key economic driver. Investors can make a big difference by adopting innovative farming methods, improving processing, and making strategic market moves. This can also improve the lives of the farmers. These investments can bring financial gains and help with sustainable development. They will improve food security and create jobs in Cameroon. With the rising demand for cassava and its products, both locally and internationally, now is the right time to invest. Wait no further and invest now to reap your rewards. To discover more investment opportunities in Cameroon, check out the blog “Business in Cameroon: Top 3 Areas You Can Invest in!” here.