Food insecurity and low yields continue to plague rice production in Cameroon, with farmers struggling against underdeveloped swamps, ageing mills, and limited access to improved seeds. In the North West Region, where rice remains a staple, stakeholders say the sector can only thrive through sustained investment and stronger farmer support.
Committee members after sessionSeeking to address these challenges, the Rice Value Chain Development Project (RVCDP) held its 5th Steering Committee Meeting on Wednesday 3 September 2025 in Bamenda. The session, chaired by Agriculture Minister Gabriel Mbairobe, renewed commitments to accelerate project implementation across targeted zones.
“The RVCDP is very important as it ties with the Presidential Plan for the Reconstruction and Development of the North West and South West Regions. Its ultimate goal is to improve living conditions by developing rice production while also providing access to basic facilities like water and healthcare.” Minister Mbairobe explained.
Minister Gabriel Mbairobe speaking after Steering Committee session in Bamenda
Unlike many national projects headquartered in distant cities, the RVCDP operates directly from its implementation area, which the Minister said should make monitoring and results more effective. The project already counts four donors, with two more expected to join in the coming months.
One of the key implementing partners, the Upper Noun Valley Development Authority (UNVDA), pledged full collaboration. Director General Eric Andangfung revealed that UNVDA currently manages 3,743 hectares of swamp land in the North West and West Regions, producing about 21,000 tons of rice annually.
“With the RVCDP, an additional 2,000 hectares in Ndop will be developed, which will significantly raise production,” he explained.
He also appealed for more government support to strengthen UNVDA’s capacity to manage the 20-ton-per-hour rice mill being acquired under the project.
For farmers, the RVCDP has already begun to make a difference. Representatives said the distribution of improved rice seeds and basic inputs has boosted confidence in the project.
“We are particularly happy that the project will tackle land development. The construction of channels and water banks will help us improve cultivation and increase yields.” Ndichengoh Salifu, farmers’ spokesperson noted.
At the close of the meeting, members of the Steering Committee under by the leadership of the Project Coordinator, Muluh Gregory resolved to be fully engaged in the project’s execution throughout its lifecycle. The renewed commitment, they agreed, will be crucial in ensuring that the RVCDP not only uplifts farmers but also strengthens food security for the North West Region and Cameroon as a whole.
By Hilltopvoices Newsroom with reports
Photo credits: Upfront
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