Cameroon’s livestock and fisheries sector plays a pivotal role in the national economy, significantly contributing to food security and rural employment. However, access to land remains one of the biggest hurdles for the development of pastoral and fisheries industries, compounded by land pressure and conflicts over land use.
The Urban and Rural Land Development and Equipment Mission (MAETUR), leveraging its expertise in land management, and the Ministry of Livestock, Fisheries, and Animal Industries (MINEPIA), responsible for public policies in the sector, are joining forces to tackle this challenge. This partnership aligns with a broader effort to modernize agricultural sectors and optimize territorial resources.
MINEPIA and MAETUR signed a partnership agreement on August 20, 2024, in Yaoundé. • The agreement spans five years and is renewable by tacit agreement. • Its goal is to secure land and develop dedicated sites for pastoral and fisheries activities across Cameroon. • The Minister of MINEPIA, Dr. TAIGA, and the Director-General of MAETUR, Mr. NDOUMBE Manga Louis Roger, signed the deal. • MAETUR commits to participating in MINEPIA’s consultation framework and contributing to action planning. • This partnership aims to remove the major obstacle of land access for the development of livestock and aquaculture sectors.
This partnership marks a decisive step in land management in Cameroon, a critical issue for rural development. By combining MAETUR’s technical expertise with MINEPIA’s sectoral vision, the two institutions are creating a framework to resolve land-use conflicts that have long hindered the growth of pastoral and fisheries industries.
For Africa, where land pressure and challenges in livestock and fisheries are similar, this interministerial collaboration model could serve as an example. It reflects a pragmatic approach to balancing economic development with resource preservation while strengthening the resilience of rural communities in the face of climate change and growing demand for animal protein.
In the short term, this partnership should enable better land allocation for herders and fishers, reducing social tensions and boosting productivity. Planned developments—such as water points, grazing areas, and processing infrastructure—could invigorate local economies and create jobs, particularly for youth and women.
In the long run, this initiative could position Cameroon as a regional leader in sustainable pastoral land management. By increasing livestock production, the country could reduce meat and fish imports while strengthening its food sovereignty. For Africa, this model could inspire similar reforms, especially in nations where livestock and fisheries play a major economic role.
The partnership between MINEPIA and MAETUR heralds a new era for Cameroon’s pastoral and fisheries sector. By securing land and optimizing its use, this agreement lays the groundwork for sustainable and inclusive development. Its success will now depend on the effective implementation of planned actions and the involvement of local stakeholders—a promising step forward for Cameroon and a strong signal for Africa.
