In a major effort to boost food security, support local livelihoods, and drive economic recovery across the region, the North West Livestock Development Fund (CDENO) has launched its fifth edition of mass livestock input distribution.

The distribution exercise, which took place on September 25, 2026, in Bamenda, saw 550 selected livestock farmers receive critical agricultural supplies. Presided over by the Governor of the North West Region, H.E. Adolphe Lele L’Afrique, the event showcased a collaborative effort between CDENO, the Ministry of Livestock, Fisheries and Animal Industries (MINEPIA), and the Integrated Agropastoral and Fisheries Import Substitution Plan (PIISAH).

During the ceremony, CDENO distributed a substantial package designed to scale up animal production ahead of the upcoming end-of-year celebrations:

* 30,000 day-old chicks distributed to poultry farmers.

* 100 piglets delivered to pig breeders.

* 142.5 tons (5,350 bags) of feed to support healthy brooding and growth.

* 400 milk collection cans set aside for dairy farmers under the PIISAH initiative.

Speaking at the event, the Director of CDENO, Mr. Shupong Michael, emphasized that September was intentionally chosen for the distribution. "We intentionally gave this input in September so that by December—the next three months—the livestock reach sizes that are ideal for market demand," Shupong explained, noting that past distributions yielded exceptional results, including poultry weighing up to 13 kilograms during previous festive seasons. To ensure long-term sustainability, CDENO’s Board of Directors has doubled the production capacity of its local hatchery and feed mill units. Mr. Shupong urged farmers to access these government-subsidized inputs directly through CDENO offices rather than middle-party exploits.

A defining feature of this year’s distribution was its focus on social inclusion. CDENO specifically prioritized persons with disabilities and vulnerable groups within the farmer cooperatives. Limen Florence, an advocate for persons with disabilities and Coordinator of the Community Resource Centre for the Disabled and Disadvantaged, expressed deep gratitude for the initiative:

"I am so grateful today for this powerful event that is truly inclusive. CDENO has taken the lead in including persons with disabilities in livestock distribution. This empowers them economically to put food on their tables and care for their families. I urge other institutions to copy this example by involving persons with disabilities in developmental planning, implementation, and decision-making."

For local farmers like Mr. Mokong Abam George, 60, the assistance provides a direct path to financial stability. "This assistance helps us alleviate poverty and improve our lives," George shared. "It provides the financial support needed to feed our families and pay school fees for our children."