From January 14 to 16, 2026, INADES-Formation Cameroun’s micro-interventionists in the Centre region, Mefou and Afamba departments, Esse district, conducted a series of community replications aimed at building the agroecological capacities of local producers. These activities took place in the localities of Mbembedjou, Esse village and Nsimi-bikoue.
These practical sessions focused on three major themes, which had emerged from the initial training received: the ecological breeding of cockchafer beetles, biochar production and the organic cultivation of watermelon combined with okra. Through field demonstrations, participatory exchanges and practical exercises, beneficiaries were able to acquire environmentally-friendly techniques adapted to their local realities.
For Catherine Okomo Senguele, biochar trainer, these replications are an important lever for the agroecological transition:
“Biochar is a simple, local solution for sustainably improving soil fertility. Seeing producers understand the process and take ownership of the technique is very encouraging for the future”, she emphasized.
Catherine Okomo Senguele molding biochar
Ecological cockchafer farming, presented as a sustainable alternative to animal feed, attracted particular interest from participants due to its low implementation costs and economic potential. Edzengte Christian, a trainer on the subject, was delighted with the enthusiasm observed in the field:“Producers are realizing that raising beetles can reduce their expenditure on animal feed while creating a new source of income. It’s an accessible innovation that meets their needs”, he explained.
Family photo at the end of the training course on raising cockchafer
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Weighing the ingredients
For its part, the organic cultivation of watermelon in association with okra was presented as a practice that improves productivity, soil protection and diversification of farm income. Awoumepe Williams, a trainer on the subject, emphasized the importance of crop association:“The watermelon-gumbo association allows for better soil occupation and limits pest attacks. Growers understand that it is possible to increase yields without resorting to chemical inputs”, he said.
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Preparing the soil before seeding
Beneficiaries have made no secret of their satisfaction. In Mbembedjou, a grower commented: “These training courses are very practical. We’ve learned techniques that we can apply immediately in our fields”.
In Esse village, a participant adds: “We can now see that agroecology can really improve our harvests and incomes, while protecting our land”.
These replications reflect INADES-Formation Cameroun’s determination to promote agroecology through peer-to-peer learning, by turning Micro-Intervention leaders into true knowledge relays within rural communities.
Through these actions, INADES-Formation Cameroun confirms its role as a key player in supporting communities towards more resilient, ecological and income-generating agriculture.
This activity is implemented within the framework of the Pôle de connaissances pour l’Agriculture biologique et l’Agroécologie en Afrique Centrale project.
Marguerite MOMHA, Communication INADES-Formation Cameroun
