Introduction
On Thursday, July 24, 2025, farmers from across Cameroon began arriving at the Maison du Parti, Bonanjo, Douala, bringing in their freshly harvested cassava and derivative products. Alongside them came representatives of local cassava processing companies eager to explore innovations in mechanisation. CAMCO Equipment (Cameroon) Ltd., as the only machinery company present, arrived early in the morning to occupy its stand. The moment it began setting up, local farmers and processors gathered around, eyes wide with curiosity, as gleaming cassava-processing machines were carefully assembled and displayed. Farmers approached the stand to see the machines closely, touch parts, take pictures, and ask questions, delighted by CAMCO’s technology.
Shortly thereafter, government officials filtered in, inspecting the exhibition area. When the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development (MINADER), Mr. Gabriel Mbairobe arrived later that morning, there was a lot of cheering, and he formally greeted fellow officials, CAMCO staff, and a few local farmers present. The minister’s arrival marked the official commencement of the two-day festival.
The Ceremony Proper
As the minister entered the main hall, he was warmly welcomed by local traditional chiefs in ceremonial attire. The programme began with the national anthem, sung by all attendees standing in silence. A welcome speech followed, delivered by a regional representative or a local authority figure, who expressed gratitude to the Ministry, the farmers, processing companies, and CAMCO for their participation.
Next, vibrant traditional dance presentations celebrated Cameroonian culture and the central role of cassava in national heritage. Performers moved gracefully to rhythmic drumming in colourful costumes, showcasing dances from various cassava-growing regions.
The focal point of the morning was the minister’s address. He encouraged farmers to embrace mechanised farming as a path to greater productivity and efficiency, noting the importance of improving yields, reducing post-harvest losses, and shortening processing time. In a compelling call-to-action, he urged all attendees to visit the CAMCO stand and consider purchasing their machines. The minister underscored that increased mechanisation would be essential for achieving national food security and economic growth within the cassava value chain.
Stand Visits
After the formal ceremony, the minister embarked on a guided tour of the exhibition area. His first stop was the stand of CAMCO Equipment (Cameroon) Ltd. Immediately visibly impressed by the displayed cassava-processing machines, he requested on the spot a quotation for 20 units, declaring his strong interest in equipping national cassava processing centres.
Surrounded by CAMCO’s sales engineers, the minister examined each machine attentively. The engineers performed live demonstrations and explained how the equipment worked—emphasising ease of use, local maintenance support, and energy efficiency. They also showed additional models in CAMCO’s catalogs. Their explanations drew enthusiastic responses from both government officials and farmer-entrepreneurs present.
During this visit, CAMCO staff distributed numerous flyers detailing machine specifications. They exchanged contact information with interested farmers and processing company representatives, ensuring follow-up communication. CAMCO’s stand quickly became the most visited and talked-about spot in the exhibition hall.
Conclusion
By the close of Friday, July 25, 2025, CAMCO Equipment (Cameroon) Ltd. had undeniably made history at the All Kassava - Acte 2 festival. As the exclusive machinery exhibitor, CAMCO’s presence was profoundly felt. Local farmers, processing companies, ministry officials, and the minister himself were impressed by the quality, innovation, and practical utility of CAMCO’s cassava-processing machines.
The minister’s verbal request for a quotation for 20 machines, coupled with attendee buzz, created significant awareness and immediate opportunities for future sales. CAMCO's staff performed admirably, delivering clear demonstrations, explanations, and networking—ensuring that interested parties left with both information and contact details.
Ultimately, CAMCO’s participation not only showcased cutting-edge agricultural machinery but also cemented its reputation as a trusted partner within Cameroon’s cassava mechanisation and food security drive. The festival ended on a high note, with CAMCO Equipment poised for tangible sales and lasting impact in the cassava sector.
