The consignments intended primarily for flood-hit populations in the Far North region and other affected localities across the country, were handed over to the Minister of Territorial Administration, Paul Atanga Nji, by the High Commissioner of India to Cameroon, Shri Vijay Khanduja, following a symbolic ceremony held in Douala in the Littoral Region yesterday.
The Republic of India has extended a generous hand to Cameroon by donating 1,000 metric tons of rice, essential medical supplies, and other humanitarian relief materials. The aid, primarily targeted at communities in the Far North Region devastated by recent floods, was officially received at a ceremony hosted at the Sawa Hotel in Douala. The donation comprises 39 containers filled with rice, medications, tents, and blankets, all aimed at alleviating the suffering of flood victims and supporting recovery efforts in the region.
Cameroon’s Minister of Territorial Administration, Paul Atanga Nji, and India’s High Commissioner to Cameroon, Shri Vijay Khanduja, presided over the handover event, highlighting the strength and depth of bilateral relations between the two countries. In his keynote remarks, High Commissioner Khanduja described the gesture as a “modest but heartfelt expression of compassion” from the people of India. He emphasized that the support reflects India’s core values of unity and humanity, especially in times of crisis. “Yoga, a Sanskrit word meaning union, teaches us about interconnectedness.
This donation is not just about food, it’s a symbol of solidarity,” Khanduja said. “In moments of hardship, we must remember that we are not alone. India stands with Cameroon.” The High Commissioner further noted that India views this aid not as charity, but as a manifestation of the strong and enduring friendship between the two countries, especially at a time when vulnerable populations in Cameroon are grappling with food insecurity, disease outbreaks, and displacement due to floods and climate-related challenges.
Cameroon expresses gratitude
Speaking on behalf of the government of Cameroon, Minister Paul Atanga Nji expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Indian government. He acknowledged the gesture as a powerful message of friendship and an example of how international partnerships can translate into tangible support for the people. “This is an example of excellent cooperation between the governments of Cameroon and India,” Minister Atanga Nji said. “President Paul Biya instructed us to receive this donation with the honor and dignity it deserves.
The government of Cameroon is thankful for this humanitarian gesture, which further strengthens the ties between Yaoundé and New Delhi.” The minister also recalled India’s earlier contributions, such as the recent donation of agricultural machinery and trucks to support Cameroonian farmers. These sustained efforts, he added, point to a strategic and growing collaboration that transcends diplomatic niceties and responds directly to the needs of the population.
Local officials and dignitaries witness ceremony
The event in Douala drew a high-level delegation, including the Governor of the Littoral Region, Samuel Dieudonné Ivaha Diboua; the Senior Divisional Officer for Wouri, Marie Mvogo Sylyac; and the Divisional Officer of Douala I, Heungap Arnaud. Also present were several members of the Indian diplomatic mission, local government officials, and representatives of humanitarian organizations. After the formal ceremony, the delegation proceeded to the Douala seaport where they inspected the containers and confirmed that the goods were ready for immediate deployment. According to logistics teams on the ground, convoys carrying the aid will begin moving toward the Far North within 48 hours.
Broader humanitarian and agricultural goals
The Indian donation arrives as Cameroon continues to face significant humanitarian and food security challenges. Prolonged dry spells followed by devastating floods have displaced thousands and disrupted agricultural production, especially in the Far North, North, and Adamawa regions. To complement humanitarian efforts, the Cameroonian government is also working on long-term agricultural reforms. A key project in this regard is the expansion of rice production by SEMRY (Société d’Expansion et de Modernisation de la Riziculture de Yagoua).
Backed by a 25 billion FCFA World Bank investment, the project aims to produce up to 180,000 metric tons of rice annually, significantly reducing Cameroon’s dependence on imports. “This Indian donation will bring short-term relief, while our investments in SEMRY will ensure long-term food self-sufficiency,” said a senior agriculture ministry official who attended the event.
A model for south-south cooperation
India’s support to Cameroon is a classic example of South-South cooperation, countries in the Global South working together to address common challenges. As climate change continues to disproportionately affect developing nations, such partnerships become increasingly vital. Observers note that India’s humanitarian outreach aligns with its broader diplomatic strategy in Africa, which focuses on development aid, capacity-building, and technical cooperation. Cameroon, for its part, has remained a key partner for India in Central Africa, with growing collaborations in agriculture, health, education, and trade.
As the trucks prepare to roll out of Douala carrying tons of aid to the flood-affected zones, the moment stands as a powerful testament to friendship, resilience, and shared humanity. In the words of High Commissioner Khanduja, “Let this donation be a reminder that no matter the distance, we are never too far to help.” With the continued support of international partners like India and the Cameroonian government’s own development initiatives, there is renewed hope that affected populations will recover and rebuild stronger than before.
