April 14, 2026

 

Cameron deploys specialised equipment as country takes step toward strengthening dairy sector

 

 

Cameroon has taken a major step toward strengthening its domestic dairy industry with the deployment of specialised equipment under the Integrated Agropastoral and Fisheries Import-Substitution Plan (PIISAH).

 

The initiative is aimed at increasing local milk production and reducing the country's heavy reliance on imports.

 

The equipment was officially handed over to the state-owned Livestock Development Corporation (SODEPA) in Yaoundé on April 3. It will support a targeted dairy production programme involving 2,000 cows, with an expected annual output of 400 tonnes of milk. This effort forms part of a broader national strategy to improve supply chain efficiency, enhance productivity, and gradually close the gap between domestic production and demand.

 

The newly acquired equipment is designed to modernise logistics and preserve product quality throughout the distribution process. It includes four tricycles—two of which are battery-powered refrigerated units capable of maintaining low temperatures for up to six hours across distances of 80 to 100 kilometres. The remaining two are isothermal tricycles that help minimise heat transfer during transportation. In addition, SODEPA received a refrigerated truck, a drone for monitoring operations, four pickup trucks, and eight motorcycles dedicated to artificial insemination activities. To support field operations, protective gear such as anti-splash goggles, hearing protection, and visored helmets was also provided.

 

According to officials, the equipment will be deployed across four strategic sites: Ndokayo in the East, Faro in the North, Djohong in the Adamawa region, and Afanloum in the Centre. This geographic distribution is intended to optimise logistics, ensure adherence to cold chain standards, and strengthen the overall structure of the dairy value chain—from production to distribution.

 

SODEPA emphasised that the initiative is a critical component of efforts to boost national milk output, which currently stands at approximately 174,000 tonnes per year—well below domestic demand. This production shortfall has led to significant imports of dairy products and by-products, placing pressure on the national economy.

 

To address this imbalance, SODEPA is also implementing a genetic improvement programme through crossbreeding. This involves combining resilient local cattle with higher-yield tropical breeds sourced from Latin America, particularly Brazil. Alongside this, fodder cultivation has been expanded to ensure consistent feed supply, while technical support from Argentine partners is helping to enhance implementation and on-the-ground results.

 

Overall, the initiative represents a coordinated effort to modernise Cameroon's dairy sector, improve self-sufficiency, and build a more resilient agricultural economy.

- Trendsnafrica