In a new episode of our agriculture-focused podcast, we delve into the critical role of cold storage in Cameroon’s farming sector. As post-harvest losses continue to undermine productivity and farmer income, the episode explores how improved storage solutions could transform food security, reduce waste, and boost export potential across the country.
Cameroon’s agriculture is diverse and vital, with crops ranging from tomatoes and onions to plantains and pineapples. However, up to 40% of perishable produce is lost before it reaches the market due to lack of proper storage and transportation. In the podcast, farmers, engineers, and policymakers discuss how cold storage or the lack of it is a major bottleneck in the agricultural value chain.
One farmer from the West Region explained how, without access to cooling facilities, he’s often forced to sell his harvest at low prices or watch it rot within days. Even if I grow high-quality produce, without storage, I lose so much, he said.
Experts interviewed on the podcast point to a combination of high energy costs, inadequate infrastructure, and limited awareness as major obstacles. Rural areas often lack reliable electricity, making it difficult to operate traditional cold storage units. However, new solar-powered cold rooms and mobile cooling units are emerging as game-changing innovations.
Guests also highlight grassroots efforts and public-private partnerships working to improve cold chain logistics. Local startups are now piloting affordable storage solutions using renewable energy, while NGOs are training farmers on post-harvest handling and quality control.
The episode also touches on policy issues. Some advocates call for more government investment in rural infrastructure and incentives to support cold storage entrepreneurship. We need a clear strategy that includes farmers, tech innovators, and government, one agribusiness consultant noted.
With rising demand for fresh produce in urban centers and neighboring countries, improving cold storage could unlock major economic opportunities for Cameroon’s farmers. But doing so will require collaboration, innovation, and a focus on sustainable solutions.
The podcast episode ends with a call to action: more investment, more training, and more awareness are needed to ensure that what is harvested actually gets to the table fresh, safe, and profitable.
