Seeds and Skills for Women to Grow Vegetables

In Cameroon, where conflict and climate shocks continue to disrupt lives, Seed Programs International (SPI) is partnering with the Integrated Agricultural Association (IAA) to support women and displaced families as they rebuild their livelihoods.

Identified by the Norwegian Refugee Council as the world’s most neglected displacement crisis, Cameroon’s humanitarian situation has affected more than 2.1 million people, including internally displaced persons (IDPs), returnees, refugees, and asylum seekers. Many displaced families have lost access to farmland, income sources, and reliable food supplies. 

Through this project, SPI and IAA are helping women and vulnerable households gain the skills, resources, and confidence needed to grow nutritious food and generate income. In the communities of Galim and Bamenjim, the program has supported the creation of 255 gardens, including 140 kitchen gardens for household nutrition and 115 huckleberry market gardens designed to generate income through local sales.

In January, IAA conducted a Training of Trainers program for 34 community trainers, including 24 women and 10 men, equipping local leaders, many of whom are internally displaced, with knowledge in climate-smart agriculture, soil health, water conservation, irrigation, composting, pest management, and community extension techniques. These trainers are now helping share agricultural knowledge and provide ongoing support within their communities.

In April, IAA provided additional training to 155 participants, including 130 women and 25 men, covering market gardening, seed management, business skills, financial literacy, cooperative leadership, nutrition, and vegetable production. Approximately 71% of participants were internally displaced people, while 29% were members of host communities, strengthening collaboration and resilience among families affected by the crisis.

For many women, these gardens represent more than a source of food, they provide a pathway toward greater independence, improved household nutrition, and economic opportunity. By combining seed distribution with agricultural training, nutrition education, and business development support, this initiative is helping women and displaced families create more stable futures while strengthening food security in their communities.

Thank you for supporting programs that empower women with the tools, knowledge, and resources to grow food, rebuild livelihoods, and cultivate hope.