(Business in Cameroon) – The South West Development Authority, SOWEDA has distributed over FCFA 22 million worth of farm inputs to 60 farmer groups across the South West Region to boost cocoa and tomato production. The initiative, which targets common initiative groups in all six divisions of the region, aims to strengthen agricultural productivity and improve rural livelihoods through enhanced yields and sustainable farming practices.
The inputs, handed out during a ceremony at SOWEDA’s headquarters in Buea, included trucks, watering cans, sprayers, fertilizers, fungicides, insecticides, and manure. Tomatoes and cocoa remain two of the South West Region’s key agricultural products, supporting thousands of households. Beneficiaries were advised to strictly follow recommended application guidelines to ensure effective and safe usage. According to SOWEDA officials, the value of distributed materials exceeds FCFA 22 million, with the support expected to double yields in some cooperatives.
“They are receiving inputs like insecticides, fungicides, bush trucks, sprayers, and also fertilizers for them to be able to increase yields. And also we have manure, especially for the tomato farmers,” said Baloko Benson, Director of Administration and Finance at SOWEDA. Farmer Nana Robert confirmed the results, noting, “Before I started receiving the input from SOWEDA, I was producing around 100 baskets of tomatoes. But now I make 150 baskets.” Another farmer, Fidel Epie from Nyasoso, added that his cooperative’s output could rise from one ton to over two tons with the new inputs.
The distribution exercise forms part of SOWEDA’s ongoing seasonal support programme to modernise agriculture and enhance food security in Cameroon’s South West Region. With agriculture contributing significantly to local GDP, the intervention is expected to stimulate rural economies, strengthen cooperative productivity, and reduce post-harvest losses. Officials say continued compliance with best practices and use of quality inputs will be key to sustaining the gains achieved so far.
Mercy Fosoh
