A significant step towards addressing climate change and food security has taken today with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the World Food Programme (WFP) and the National Observatory on Climate Change (NOCC) this February 27,2025.The ceremony took place at the WFP headquarters in Yaoundé, featuring the Country Director of the WFP, Gianluca Ferrara, and the Director General of the NOCC, Professor Joseph Armathe Amougou.
In his remarks, Professor Amougou expressed gratitude to the Government of Cameroon and underscored the critical importance of this partnership in combating the growing challenges posed by climate change. “This collaboration is not just a signature on paper; it is a commitment to a sustainable future for our communities,” he stated.
Professor Amougou highlighted alarming manifestations of climate change in Cameroon, including declining annual rainfall, altered precipitation patterns, and an increase in extreme weather events such as floods and droughts. These changes have dire consequences for agriculture—Cameroon’s primary economic sector—resulting in reduced crop yields and heightened food insecurity.
Recent studies indicate that the economic impact of climate change on staple crops has reached an estimated 44.3 billion FCFA annually across various regions. “Our farmers face unprecedented risks that threaten their livelihoods and food security,” Professor Amougou emphasized, calling for urgent action to address these challenges.
The MOU aims to enhance the collection and analysis of climate data, enabling WFP to integrate climate information into food assistance programs and resilience-building efforts. The collaboration will focus on developing robust early warning systems and comprehensive flood preparedness plans to ensure timely responses during disasters.
“Together, we will ensure that no community remains vulnerable to climate-related shocks,” Professor Amougou affirmed, stressing the importance of actionable climate data for decision-makers and humanitarian actors.
This partnership aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and aims to empower vulnerable populations to achieve food security and resilience against climate impacts. The NOCC plans to produce seasonal climate forecasts and agricultural calendars to guide farmers in optimizing their production.
This agreement marks a pivotal moment in the fight against climate-related challenges in Cameroon, paving the way for sustainable solutions that prioritize the well-being of communities in need.
Che Tembuck
