Cameroon 2025: Sub-Saharan Research Excursion
To strengthen South-South academic partnerships, scientists from Hawassa University (Ethiopia) visited the University of Buea (Cameroon) from August 24 to September 3, 2025. The visit focused on a high-level professional dialogue regarding the promotion of underutilized plant species across the diverse ecological zones of both nations. This direct cooperation between African research institutions is instrumental in developing regionally adapted agricultural solutions.
Field Studies in Mbandjock and Akonolinga
Coordinated by the University of Buea project team, the excursion began with visits to key field sites. On August 26, the team inspected the Mbandjock site, followed by a two-day stay in Akonolinga on August 27 and 28. These locations demonstrated the practical scaling of research findings: adjacent to the UnderPlaNet field lab, a 50-hectare Anacardium (cashew) plantation has been established. These local field labs serve as regional catalysts, illustrating the successful transfer of scientific theory into agricultural practice.
For the Hawassa-Buea partnership, these sites provide vital comparative data on cultivation systems across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Ecological Diversity in the Coastal Region
The delegation traveled to Limbe and Idenau on August 31, 2025. This coastal segment allowed the Hawassa University researchers to explore the specific agro-ecological challenges unique to Cameroon’s coastline.
Comparing these conditions with Ethiopia’s distinct ecology fosters a nuanced understanding of site-specific agriculture and forms the basis for a robust knowledge transfer within the South-South framework.
Scientific Discourse and Networking
The excursion concluded with a technical seminar on September 2, 2025, at the University of Buea’s RhizoLab. Researchers from both universities presented their findings, focusing on a comparative analysis of field labs in Ethiopia and Cameroon to identify both commonalities and site-specific differences.
The event was well-attended by faculty leadership, professors, lecturers, and a significant number of PhD and Master’s students. Involving the next generation of scientists from both institutions ensures the long-term stability and growth of this academic network.
Significance of the Partnership
The integration of field studies with academic discourse underscores the vital nature of the collaboration between Hawassa University and the University of Buea. This South-South partnership enables the efficient pooling of resources and expertise to protect biodiversity and embed sustainable agricultural innovations within the partner countries. By fostering direct exchange between institutions of the Global South, this initiative contributes significantly to regional food security.