The North West Development Authority (MIDENO) has intensified efforts to increase rice and coffee production across the region, with its Board of Directors endorsing measures aimed at expanding farmer support, strengthening value chains and improving agricultural output.
The commitment emerged during the 61st Board Meeting of MIDENO held in Bamenda on Thursday under the chairmanship of the Governor of the North West Region and Board Chair, H.E. Lele L’Afrique Adolphe Choffo Deben.
The board examined and adopted the Authority’s administrative and management accounts and reviewed progress made on key development initiatives, including the Rice Value Chain Development Project and preparations for the second phase of the Livestock and Fisheries Development Project (LIFIDEP II).
Addressing board members at the opening session, the Governor underscored the strategic importance of agriculture in the region’s recovery and long-term stability, particularly rice and coffee production.
.png)
He stated: “This Board meeting comes at a critical moment where we must ensure that our agricultural value chains are not only functional but delivering real impact to farmers and communities across the North West Region.”
He further stressed the urgency of translating policy into measurable outcomes, noting that institutions like MIDENO carry a central responsibility in rebuilding livelihoods.
“We are not here for routine deliberations. We are here to ensure that every decision taken directly contributes to food security, income generation and economic recovery for our people,” the Governor added.
A key moment in the opening session was the formal introduction of a new board member, Matthew Ngangwa, General Manager of NWCA, who joins at a time when coffee revival efforts are gaining renewed focus. The Governor urged him to bring sector experience into board deliberations, particularly in strengthening partnerships aimed at revamping coffee production.
Speaking after the meeting, MIDENO General Manager Cletus Anye Matoyah said the Authority is deepening collaboration with partners to increase productivity through structured support to farmers and improved market systems.
.png)
He explained that MIDENO has continued to supply agricultural inputs to both rice and coffee farmers, with tangible interventions already implemented in 2025.
“We supported farmers with significant farm inputs last year, especially in rice and coffee production. Our focus is to ensure that these farmers are properly equipped to increase yields and improve production levels across the region,” he said.
Anye Matoyah also highlighted a shift beyond production support to include consumption and value addition initiatives, revealing that MIDENO is promoting local coffee consumption through dedicated outlets.
“We are now creating consumption points, including a coffee shop at our headquarters. The idea is to encourage coffee consumption while strengthening the entire value chain from production to market,” he added.
He, however, noted that productivity gains remain dependent on sustained farmer support, particularly consistent access to quality inputs and technical assistance.
.png)
Closing the board session, Governor Lele L’Afrique Adolphe Choffo Deben commended Management for the transparency demonstrated in the presentation of accounts and acknowledged efforts made in navigating operational challenges during the period under review.
He stated: “We have examined the accounts and progress reports and are satisfied with the clarity and order in their presentation. However, Management must intensify efforts in revenue mobilisation and ensure timely disbursement of funds for effective implementation.”
The Governor further warned that implementation pressure is increasing as displaced populations return to their communities and depend heavily on agriculture for survival and recovery.
“There is growing expectation from our populations returning to their villages. Agriculture must now deliver not just promises, but tangible livelihoods and stability,” he said.
The Board also encouraged MIDENO to strengthen internally generated revenue and ensure faster execution of development projects, particularly in rice and coffee value chains.
.png)
He also disclosed plans for field visits to key agricultural projects, including the Upper Nun Valley Development Authority (UNVDA) in Ndop and the Rice Value Chain Development Project, as part of ongoing government oversight.
Talking to Hilltopvoices after the meeting, Matthew Ngangwa, General Manager of NWCA said “I am satisfied to be part of my first Board Meeting at such a decisive moment for MIDENO, especially with the renewed focus on the coffee sector. I fully commit myself to accompanying all ongoing efforts to strengthen the value chain, and I already have in sight the production of instant coffee as a key frontier we must collectively pursue.”
The resolutions from the 61st Board Meeting firmly position rice and coffee as strategic pillars of MIDENO’s agricultural transformation agenda, aimed at improving rural incomes, strengthening food security and supporting economic recovery across the North West Region.
By Bakah Derick for Hilltopvoices Web
Tel: +237 694 71 85 77
.jpg)
0 تعليقات