Cameroon’s Wheat Challenge: From Research to Self-Sufficiency

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Cameroon’s Wheat Challenge: From Research to Self-Sufficiency

Closing the gap will require more than just a well-elaborated government action plan.

14 Oct 2026 07:38

C ameroon’s ambition to reduce yearly wheat import of approxima tely 1.5 million tonnes will depend on its ability to transform promising agricultural research into large-scale, com petitive commercial production. Despite government initiatives to promote local wheat and alternative flours, the country remains heavily dependent on foreign supplies to meet demand from bakeries, flour mills, and food-processing in dustries. According to trade data compiled from FAOSTAT, Cameroon imported approxi mately 1.04 million tonnes of wheat in 2024. In response, the government has appro ved a three-year FCFA 30.9 billion action plan targeting 4,500 hectares of land, 9,000 tonnes of certified seeds, and 180,000 tonnes of marketable wheat, while implementation is expected to begin in 2027. The priority is to multiply cer tified, high-yielding seeds. The Agricultural Research Institute for Development (IRAD) has identified promising varieties, including IRAD1, IRAD2, Banyo, and Bamenda. However, re search achievements must translate into reliable seed supplies, farmer training, and consistent harvests across sui table agro-ecological zones. Secondly, production costs and yields must improve, thus, farmers need affordable ferti lisers, appropriate machinery, irrigation where necessary, access to credit, and exten sion services. Better drying, storage, and rural roads are equally important to minimise post-harvest losses and deliver grain in good condition. Third, the government must bring industrial millers, bakeries, and farmers into firm commercial partnerships. Guaranteed pur chase agreements, transparent pricing, and quality standards would give producers confi dence to invest while helping processors secure dependable local supplies. Investment in grain testing, cleaning, mil ling, and storage facilities is also essentia...