Youth rural employment in Cameroon is a critical challenge for economic and social development in the Moungo Department. This report, prepared by Mr. TCHANA Emmanuel of the Centre d’Etude et d’Appui pour le Développement (CEAD), offers a detailed analysis of employment opportunities and barriers for young people in this area.
What is the JOY Project and Why Does It Matter?
The JOY (Jobs Open to the Youth) project, led by PROCASUR and IFAD, promotes integrated agro-industrial hubs to generate decent jobs for rural youth in Cameroon and Kenya. These hubs aim to boost local economies through innovation, technical training, and access to financing.
Key sectors driving youth employment in Moungo
The study identifies five main sectors with strong employment potential:
Poultry farming: Chick production, egg and meat processing.
Fish farming: Pond farming and feed production.
Pineapple farming: Cultivation, processing, and sales.
Ecological and renewable energy activities: Solar energy, biomass, eco-friendly products.
Digital agriculture: Development of mobile tools for market access and farm management.
Main barriers facing rural youth employment in Cameroon
Several factors are limiting youth employment opportunities:
Climate change: Altered rainy seasons and crop calendar disruptions.
COVID-19 pandemic: Decline in agricultural productivity and rising costs.
Socio-political instability: Insecurity linked to the Anglophone crisis.
Recommended strategies for youth economic inclusion
To strengthen youth rural employment in Cameroon, the report recommends:
Integrated support for youth entrepreneurship and business creation.
Technical and vocational training aligned with sector needs.
Improved youth access to finance via strategic partnerships.
