At 30th anniversary celebration: Trade minister lauds food-processing company for indispensable service to society.

The event gathered top-level government officials including the Secretary General of the Ministry of Finance, the Secretary General of the Ministry of Livestock, Fisheries and Animal Industries, and senior administrative authorities from the Littoral Region, Wouri Division, and the City of Douala. Also present were OLAM Agri’s top executives, guests, and the company’s personnel.

Minister Mbarga Atangana, in his keynote address, lauded the remarkable achievements of OLAM Agri, particularly in navigating challenging economic conditions while maintaining professionalism and dynamism. “Despite numerous obstacles, the resilience and commitment of OLAM Agri have prevailed,” he noted.

The minister emphasised the company’s strong footprint beyond rice distribution, spotlighting its high-tech flourmill, which manufactures wheat-based products tailored to market demands. 

“This is a direct response to the needs of our consumers and an essential pillar of our food industry,” he added.

Speaking further, Minister Mbarga Atangana revealed OLAM Agri’s plans to establish a local production unit for animal feed, including fish, poultry, and livestock. 

He said this initiative aligns with the government's import substitution strategy, particularly for fish, a commodity that accounts for over 200,000 tons in annual imports, significantly impacting the country’s trade balance.

The minister also praised the food processing company for its role in combating high living costs and ensuring product availability in markets. 

“This company’s investment in Cameroon is a testament to its commitment to food security, youth employment, and economic growth,” he affirmed.

It should be noted that OLAM Agri, a household name in Cameroon, is a market leader in rice distribution across the country and the African continent. 

The minister acknowledged the company’s global expertise in integrating supply chains ‘from plantation to plate,’ which has greatly benefited the local market.

“Over the past three decades, OLAM Agri has remained a cornerstone in Cameroon’s food security framework,” Minister Mbaraga Atangana affirmed, applauding the company’s support of the national “Made in Cameroon” campaign. He said, it’s products like Bijou Mammy, Bijou Standard, and Bijou Agege have gained significant traction in both markets and supermarkets.

Speaking after the minister, OLAM Agri executives, in turn, expressed gratitude to the Cameroon government for fostering a favourable investment environment. They extended special thanks to the Head of State, H.E. Paul Biya, for the business-friendly conditions that have enabled foreign investors to thrive in the country.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3452 of Thursday May 22, 2025