Cooperation between Cameroon and Israel turns a new leaf as MASHAV experts run an on-the-spot course on poultry farming at EPAB (École Pratique d’Agriculture de Binguela)
Previously, beyond cooperation in the exchange and development of irrigation techniques, these relations have taken the facets of art, music, cinema, health, technology and science exchanges. They have also included other countries in the sub-region; a fine example of this being the accord signed between CPAC-CEMAC in favour of exchange programmes and training in the area of pesticide management.
Israel’s Agency for International Development Cooperation (MASHAV) is at the centre of these exchanges that have specific technical, health and development colouring. As such MASHAV offers dozens of short courses every year in Israel in which hundreds of Cameroonians and other CEMAC citizens take part. It is in this light that a CEMAC delegation of 22 persons left for Israel yesterday (11th Sept) to receive training in pesticide management related fields. Last month, Israeli experts sent by MASHAV took part in a United Nations Development Programme initiative called Millennium Village Programme in the Far North region with a further and similar contribution expected in the South Region later this year.
The specific training agreed to and designed for EPAB will focus on various technical aspects of poultry farming. It will cover nutrition, veterinary and management aspects of poultry farming. It will also project the adaptability of the Israeli model and experience to various conditions.
The benefits of this course are multiple:
1 The desert conditions in Israel and the current state of agricultural production in Cameroon mean that both countries share the need to diversify their agricultural activity and produce. The poultry sector is a low cost area in which this objective can be achieved.
2 The increased production of eggs from poultry farming is a healthy source of protein for the local population
3 The current inadequacy between the demand and supply of poultry products in the Sub-region means that the course serves a useful basis for the growth of a viable industry
4 The MASHAV experts, Dr. Amir Ben-David and Mr. Ilan Arie are hands-in-glove experts who do not only have farming and veterinary experience, but also have experience in knowledge sharing. As such, farmers, vets, students and policy makers present at the course will find it beneficial.
5 The fact that the course takes place locally will facilitate the adaptation of its content to local context as well as increase the chances for multiplication of beneficiaries of the knowledge shared.
The course represents a useful impetus given to the poultry industry in Cameroon.
The Ambassador of Israel, H.E. Miki Arbel also used the opportunity to hand over a full irrigation kit and water pump to the School.