CNCD Participates in FOSPAC 5 to Advance Sustainable Agriculture in Cameroon
Introduction: Strengthening the Foundations of Sustainable Agriculture
Sustainable agriculture depends on resilient seed systems, strong community knowledge, and active participation across generations. In Cameroon, farmers’ seed systems—rooted in traditional knowledge—remain essential for food security, climate adaptation, and biodiversity conservation.
The Centre for Nature Conservation and Development (CNCD) continues to support these systems by engaging in national platforms that promote agroecology, farmer innovation, and youth involvement.
CNCD’s Participation in FOSPAC 5 in Esse
As a member of the Network for the Promotion of Peasant Agroecology in Cameroon (REPAC), CNCD actively participated in FOSPAC 5, held in Esse from February 21 to 23, 2025.
The event was organized by RADD and brought together farmers, civil society organizations, youth groups, researchers, and development actors committed to sustainable agricultural transformation in Cameroon.
CNCD’s presence reaffirmed its commitment to agroecology, farmer-led seed systems, and intergenerational knowledge exchange.
Understanding FOSPAC: A Platform for Agroecological Innovation
FOSPAC (Forum of Peasant Agroecology in Cameroon) serves as a national platform to:
- Promote peasant agroecology
- Strengthen farmers’ seed systems
- Share traditional and innovative agricultural practices
- Build solidarity among agroecology stakeholders
FOSPAC 5 placed particular emphasis on intergenerational dynamics, recognizing youth as key actors in the future of sustainable agriculture.
Fostering Intergenerational Knowledge Exchange
One of the central objectives of FOSPAC 5 was to foster intergenerational collaboration between experienced farmers and young people.
Through participatory activities, discussions, and exhibitions, the event highlighted:
- The value of traditional farming knowledge
- The role of elders in seed conservation
- The importance of youth innovation and energy
This approach ensures continuity of knowledge while adapting agroecological practices to modern challenges.
Promoting Farmers’ Seed Systems and Biodiversity
Farmers’ seed systems are essential for:
- Preserving agricultural biodiversity
- Enhancing climate resilience
- Ensuring local control over seeds
- Reducing dependence on external inputs
FOSPAC 5 emphasized the protection and promotion of indigenous seeds as a cornerstone of food sovereignty and sustainable agriculture. CNCD supports these efforts through advocacy, capacity building, and community engagement.
Encouraging Youth Innovation for a Sustainable Agricultural Future
Youth involvement was a key pillar of FOSPAC 5. The event encouraged young people to:
- Engage actively in agroecological farming
- Innovate within traditional knowledge systems
- Explore sustainable agricultural entrepreneurship
By bridging tradition and innovation, FOSPAC 5 demonstrated that agroecology can offer viable and dignified livelihoods for young people.
CNCD’s Role in Advancing Peasant Agroecology
CNCD’s participation aligns with its broader mission to:
- Promote climate-resilient and sustainable agriculture
- Support farmer-led innovation
- Protect traditional knowledge and biodiversity
- Strengthen inclusive agricultural systems
Through networks such as REPAC, CNCD contributes to national dialogue and grassroots action for agroecological transformation.
Why This Matters to Donors and Partners
Supporting initiatives like FOSPAC:
- Strengthens food sovereignty and resilience
- Preserves agricultural biodiversity
- Empowers youth and farming communities
- Aligns with global priorities on sustainable food systems
CNCD welcomes collaboration with donors, foundations, and partners committed to agroecology and sustainable agriculture in Africa.
Call to Action: Support Agroecology and Farmer-Led Innovation in Cameroon
Transforming agriculture requires collective effort. CNCD invites donors, foundations, and development partners to support programs that strengthen farmers’ seed systems, empower youth, and promote peasant agroecology.
Together, we can build a sustainable and resilient agricultural future for Cameroon.
