The prestigious event which is held under the patronage of Head of State, President Paul Biya, brings together key stakeholders to chart a transformative path for Cameroon’s agricultural sector
The 9th edition of the International Exhibition of Agriculture and Agribusiness of Yaounde, known by its French language acronym as SIALY, has officially opened at the National Museum in Yaounde, marking 15 years of the event’s existence. It was opened by the representative of the Head of State, Minister Fuh Calistus Gentry of the Ministry of Mines, Industry and Technological Development.
The event was flagged off with a clear vision for Cameroon’s agro-industrial future. The prestigious event, held under the high patronage of President Paul Biya, brings together key stakeholders to chart a transformative path for Cameroon’s agricultural sector.
Minister Fuh Calistus emphasized that SIALY represents more than an exhibition. He said the fair “Is a strategic platform to operationalize the vision of agricultural modernization and industrial emergence.” “This hub is not just an exhibition, it is Central Africa’s most vital platform connecting farmers, industries and policymakers.
Through technology transfer, market linkages and showcasing innovations like biodegradable packaging, we are building the foundation for a self-sufficient Cameroon,” the member of government added. The exhibition’s core mission focuses on bridging the gap between agricultural potential and industrial reality with over 40% of Cameroon’s active population engaging in agriculture.
Authorities said the government is through the platform, prioritizing value through local processing of key commodities like cocoa and cotton. “The future of our economy lies in transforming our raw materials into finished goods right here on Cameroonian soil,” Prof Fuh Calistus said. “This vision is already taking shape through landmark projects like the new cocoa processing unit in the South region and upcoming cotton textile factories,” he detailed.
The minister ended with a call for action, he says the time has come for Cameroon to fully leverage its resources, talent, and strategic partnerships. As the agri fair demonstrates, experts say collaboration between government, private sector, and international allies is key to unlocking progress.
SAILY was introduced in 2010. It has as objective to favor the emergence of a robust agro-business ecosystem, integrated and oriented towards local transformation.
Aligning with President Biya’s economic vision, SAILY launches June 23 to 29 with a high-level opening ceremony, showcasing Cameroon’s interest to local industrialization and agro-food sector development with determination and innovation, Cameroon is poised to weather economic challenges and emerge as a beacon of sustainable development in Africa.
