Workshop in Cameroon touts green business for climate change adaptation

Training seeks to equip stakeholders in northern Cameroon with the skills to execute a sustainable business model.

From 15 to 17 May 2024, the conservation services of Benoué National Park, Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife (MINFOF) collaborated with INBAR to successfully organize a workshop aimed at bolstering eco-business endeavors and addressing challenges that are hindering the success of restoration initiatives in northern Cameroon. Hosted in Garoua, the event brought together key stakeholders committed to enhancing local communities’ resilience to climate change through youth entrepreneurship and integrated natural resources management under the ACREGIR project.

The three-day workshop, chaired by the Regional Delegate for the North of MINFOF, brought together a diverse array of participants including community stewards, eco-business entrepreneurs, conservators from national parks, directors of business training centers, representatives from local councils, and officials from relevant line ministries such as MINFOF, the Ministry of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises, Social Economy and Handicrafts, and Ministry of Domains, Cadastre and Land Affairs.

The workshop commenced with two days dedicated to equipping attendees with valuable knowledge and skills essential for establishing and managing eco-businesses in Cameroon. Participants gained insights into eco-business concepts, SME creation, business plan development, and legal frameworks governing land occupation and resource utilization.

The culminating day of the workshop featured a stakeholder consultation to identify factors contributing to the limited success of restoration initiatives in the northern regions of Cameroon and developing strategies to strengthen outcomes of the ACREGIR project. Through collaborative efforts, key stakeholders elucidated challenges and proposed strategies to bolster the effectiveness of restoration endeavors within the scope of the project.

Among the tangible outcomes of the workshop were a demonstrated understanding of eco-business principles, enhanced leadership and entrepreneurship skills, and the development of viable business plans tailored to local needs and resources. Additionally, participants identified crucial stakeholders and delineated strategies to amplify the efficacy of restoration initiatives in the northern regions.

Speaking on the significance of the workshop, Mr. Aminou, on behalf of the Regional Delegate for the North of MINFOF remarked, “This workshop represents a pivotal step towards fostering economic growth, sustainable resource management, and community resilience in the face of climate change. By equipping stakeholders with essential tools and fostering collaboration, we are poised to accelerate progress towards a more sustainable future for the northern regions of Cameroon.”

The resounding success of the workshop underscores the commitment of all stakeholders towards realizing the objectives of the ACREGIR project and ultimately advancing sustainable development in Cameroon.

For more information, please contact: Rene Kaam,