Cameroon’s FEBASY Fair Offers Affordable Goods Ahead of Holidays
Yaoundé, Cameroon – The 11th edition of the FEBASY (Foire des Femmes de Bayam selam) fair opened its doors from December 13th to 23rd, 2024, offering residents affordable food and goods in the lead-up to the Christmas and new Year holidays. The fair,held under the patronage of President Paul Biya and with financial support from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA),is a significant event for the city.
Minister of Trade Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana officially opened the fair, highlighting its importance in providing affordable food options for Yaoundé’s residents. ”This sale, lasting 10 days, allows the population to get supplies at a lower cost,” he stated. The fair offers a wide variety of fresh produce, fish, meat, and other essential goods from across Cameroon.
The UNFPA’s Deputy Representative, Noemi Dalmonte, emphasized the organization’s support for women’s groups like ASBY, the association behind the fair. ”One of our main strategies is supporting women’s groups as these are the groups that can really lead development in the country in several aspects,” Dalmonte said. “ASBY is a true example because these women are in every market in Cameroon; they are a great vector for the welfare of the people.”
ASBY President Marie Mbala Biloa expressed gratitude for the continued support of President Paul Biya and his wife, Chantal Biya, noting that their support led to ASBY’s recognition as a public utility. She also announced that the African Development Bank will finance the construction of a new ASBY market with a 2 billion CFA franc investment.
Prices at the fair are notably competitive, with golden mackerel costing 1500 CFA per kilogram and beef at 2000 CFA per kilogram. The Ministry of Commerce encourages residents to take advantage of the affordable prices before the fair concludes on December 23rd, 2024.
ASBY, established in 2004 and protected by OAPI in 2006, is a non-profit association working to improve the lives of Cameroonians. Its presence at the heart of the country’s markets underscores its commitment to economic empowerment and community development.
Interview: Unpacking Cameroon’s FEBASY Fair & Economic Empowerment
Welcome back to World Today News. Today, we’re joined by Dr. Adeline Njoya, an economist with a focus on Sub-Saharan African markets, to delve deeper into teh recently concluded FEBASY fair in Cameroon. Dr. Njoya, thanks for joining us.
Senior Editor: Dr. Njoya,the FEBASY fair is described as offering affordable goods in the led-up to the holiday season. Can you elaborate on the significance of this event for Cameroonian consumers?
Dr. Njoya: Absolutely. The FEBASY fair, held annually in Yaoundé, plays a crucial role in bridging the affordability gap, notably during a period of increased holiday spending. By bringing together local vendors and providing a platform for direct sales, the fair ensures access to essential goods like produce, meat, and fish at competitive prices. This is incredibly crucial for lower-income households who might otherwise struggle to afford these necessities during the festive season.
Senior editor: the article mentions the involvement of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the African Advancement Bank. What role do these organizations play in supporting the fair and ASBY, the association behind it?
Dr. Njoya: Both the UNFPA and the African development Bank recognize the crucial role of women in economic development. the UNFPA’s support for ASBY underscores its commitment to empowering women economically and socially. Similarly, the African Development Bank’s investment in a new ASBY market reflects its dedication to infrastructure development that supports inclusive growth.
Senior editor: Looking at the bigger picture, what does the success of the FEBASY fair tell us about the potential for similar initiatives in other African countries?
Dr. Njoya: The FEBASY fair serves as a powerful model for other African nations striving to promote food security,support local businesses,and empower women. By creating platforms that connect producers directly with consumers, governments and organizations can foster inclusive economic growth and ensure that essential goods remain accessible to all.
Senior Editor: Dr. Njoya, thank you so much for sharing your insights on this important topic.
We hope this interview sheds light on the multifaceted impact of the FEBASY fair and the work of organizations dedicated to promoting sustainable development in Cameroon and beyond.
