“The economic challenges in our community, worsened by the ongoing conflict, made it nearly impossible for me to find a job or secure the resources I needed to pursue my ambitions,” says Nfor Jeraldine, a 32-year-old mother of three from Bamenda III, North-West Region.
Jeraldine’s journey began with humble aspirations and daunting obstacles. After graduating from an agricultural school, she nurtured a dream of starting her own farming business. However, her plans were derailed by the insecurity in her community, which not only disrupted her access to farmland but also depleted her savings as she struggled to provide for her family. The lack of financial resources and safe opportunities to start her business left her feeling stuck and uncertain about the future.
Within the framework of the Presidential Plan for the Reconstruction and Development of the North-West and South-West regions, through the UNDP Recovery Programme, and with funding from the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), Annabel and over 200 other farmers were selected and empowered in poultry farming under the project pillar for local economic revitalization. The project provided them with poultry farming equipment and technical and business skills, which marked the beginning of a transformative chapter in her life. “When I received the equipment, I knew this was my chance to change everything,” Annabel recalls.
UNDP-CMR-Mme Annabel collecting eggs to supply to local customers-NWR-2024
With the tools and support provided, she partnered with a neighbor to set up a poultry farm. Starting with just a few chicks, their joint venture quickly grew to a flock of over 200 birds. Eggs and chicken from the farm started supplying local markets and restaurants, providing a steady income that transformed her family’s finances. “I never imagined I could provide a stable future for my children, but today, I have the means to take care of my family and save for their future. The business chain I have built also supports the livelihood of other families.” Annabel testifies with a voice filled with gratitude.
“Working with Annabel has been fulfilling. I’ve learnt so much about poultry farming. The salary I earn, though not much, enables me to take care of my siblings and even save for my own small business in the future.” Confirms George, a young IDP, working in the poultry.
The impact of Annabel’s business extends beyond her immediate team. One of her loyal customers, Emmanuel Ngum, a local restaurant owner in the area, speaks highly of her products. “Annabel’s eggs and chickens are of excellent quality and have become a reliable source for our restaurant. Thanks to her steady supply, I’ve been able to expand my menu and attract more customers. Her hard work is truly inspiring,” says Emmanuel.
UNDP-CMR-George, a young IDP assisting Annabel at the poultry in Bamenda III, Mezam division-NWR-2024
This intervention which falls under the local economic revitalization pillar of the programme is part of a broader strategy under the PPRD to address the challenges faced by communities in the North-West and South-West regions. Key achievements of the pillar of include:
- 1725 hectares of farm rehabilitated
- 2461 farmers supported with equipment, tools, and materials
- 67 innovative production and transformation units.
- 23 markets constructed/rehabilitated
- 171 agro-pastoral groups supported
- 321 youth start-ups supported
“In addition to these considerable successes, thanks to support from the Government and partners, through the PPRD, the programme is working with stakeholders to rehabilitate essential infrastructure and promote social cohesion and peacebuilding in the regions. Despite this significant progress, there are still youth, women, and their families in need. The availability of more resources will enable us to respond to their needs” observes Mary Nyuyinui, Coordinator, UNDP Recovery Programme, NW Region, Cameroon.
