Boosting food security: PULCCA, CDENO assist NW farmers with layer fowls, piglets.

This was during a ceremony organised in Bamenda recently. It marked the second phase distribution of some livestock components.

The 3,900 layer fowls, 500 pure breed piglets, 600 bags of complete layer feed, 400 bags of complete pig starter feed, 900 drinkers, 900 feeders, were handed out to the selected farmers by the North West Livestock Development Fund, CDENO, implementing partner of the PULCCA project.

The farmers also benefitted 300 mini layer houses and 200 mini pig styles, constructed with funding from the project. 

These inputs constitute a startup capital to permit the farmers engage into full production in order to step up chicken and pig production in the region and also alleviate poverty at the level of their families. 

Speaking during the event to hand the layer fowls, piglets and other inputs to the farmers, CDENO Director, Shupong Michael, emphasised the significance of the project in boosting food production and improving the livelihoods of farmers. 

“This assistance is a lifeline for our vulnerable farmers, who have been impacted by various challenges. We are committed to empowering them to increase their production and improve their economic situation,” he said.

Enter NW Governor

In his remarks during the ceremony, the Governor of the North West Region, Adolphe Lele L’ Afrique, praised the initiative, while urging farmers to make the most of the resources provided. 

He enjoined livestock stakeholders in the region live to up to government’s expectation in the fight against food insufficiency. 

“This is an opportunity to generate income, fight unemployment, and contribute to the overall development as well as peace of our region,” he stated.

The PULCCA project, geared at combatting food insecurity, extends beyond livestock to include support for small ruminant producers, honey producers, milk producers, fish farmers, and fishmongers. 

This holistic approach aims to address the diverse needs of the region’s agricultural sector. CDENO and PULCCA is working closely with local communities to ensure that the assistance reaches those who need it most. 

The project has also included capacity-building workshops to equip farmers with the skills necessary to manage their livestock effectively.

Targeting increase in production

As the festive season approaches, the livestock farmers will be looking to increase production in order to satisfy the demand of consumers that will be in an increase.

The donation of the livestock components is intended to ensure that farmers have everything they need to succeed.

Samba Ernest, one of the farmers who benefitted from donation, said: “This is more than just a gift as it is an investment in the future of our region”.

He went on to add that: “We are grateful for the training and support we have received. It will help us to not only feed our families but also contribute to the overall food security...”.

Tanfen Inua Verla, a recipient from Jakiri, in Bui Division expressed joy after receiving poultry products, stating that the activity would improve his living conditions and help him pay his children’s school fees.

On her part, Menjo Prisca from Teze in Ngie Subdivision, expressed gratitude after receiving piglets, adding that she would use the pig rearing to support her family and send her children to school.

Producing more, reducing poverty

The distribution of livestock and other inputs is demonstration of government’s commitment to supporting rural communities and promoting food security.

The project is expected to fight against food insufficiency, reduce poverty, and promote economic development throughout the region the region. The project is expected to have a significant impact on food production and poverty reduction in the region.

In all, the PULCCA project concerns not only small ruminant producers, but also honey producers, milk producers, producers of fish in tanks, producers of fish.

The PULCCA project, observers say, is a shining example of government and community collaboration to address the needs of vulnerable farmers. 

By providing comprehensive support and empowering farmers with the skills they need to succeed, the project is helping to build a brighter future for the North West Region.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3248 of Thursday October 03, 2024