West Regional Fair : Rainforest supported Enterprises Showcase Knowhow

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The Rainforest Alliance’s SME Support Program

The Rainforest Alliance, a well-established international charity, has been working tirelessly to support small and medium-size enterprises (SMEs) in various regions around the world. One of the key areas of focus for the organization is the production of specialty food products, with a particular emphasis on honey and by-products, processed Irish potato, cassava, sweet potato, maize products, and avocado oil.

Benefits of Supporting SMEs

Supporting SMEs through the Rainforest Alliance’s program has numerous benefits for both the businesses and the local communities they serve. Some of the key advantages include:

  • Improved livelihoods: By providing access to training, technical assistance, and market access, the Rainforest Alliance’s program helps SMEs to increase their productivity and competitiveness, leading to improved livelihoods for the owners and their families. Environmental sustainability: The program also promotes environmentally sustainable practices, such as the use of organic farming methods and responsible forestry practices, which help to conserve biodiversity and protect the natural resources of the region.

    Cooperative beekeeping in Cameroon promotes sustainable practices and empowers local communities.

    SCOOPS AMONBA is a cooperative of beekeepers who work together to produce high-quality honey and other bee products.

    The SCOOPS AMONBA Cooperative

    A Brief History

    The SCOOPS AMONBA cooperative was established in 2005 by a group of beekeepers from the Bamboutos Mountains in Cameroon. The cooperative was formed to address the challenges faced by individual beekeepers in the region, including limited access to markets and inadequate storage facilities. By pooling their resources and working together, the beekeepers were able to improve their production and sales of honey and other bee products.

    The SCOOPS AMONBA Model

    The SCOOPS AMONBA model is a unique approach to cooperative management that prioritizes the well-being of the beekeepers and the environment. The cooperative is structured around a network of local beekeepers who work together to manage the production and sales of honey and other bee products. This approach allows for greater control over the production process and more equitable distribution of profits.

    Key Features of the SCOOPS AMONBA Model

  • Local decision-making: The SCOOPS AMONBA model allows for local decision-making, which enables the beekeepers to respond quickly to changes in the market and the environment. Participatory management: The cooperative is managed by a network of local beekeepers, who participate in decision-making and contribute to the management of the cooperative. Sustainable practices: The SCOOPS AMONBA model prioritizes sustainable practices, such as the use of natural beekeeping methods and the conservation of bee habitats.

    The SCOOPS AMONBA Cooperative: A Model of Empowerment and Sustainability

    The SCOOPS AMONBA cooperative is a shining example of how collective action and community-driven initiatives can lead to positive change. Established in July 2024, this cooperative has been making waves in the beekeeping industry with its impressive production numbers and commitment to empowering its members.

    A Growing Presence in the Beekeeping Industry

    With an annual production of over 5,000 litres of honey, SCOOPS AMONBA has established itself as a significant player in the beekeeping industry. This achievement is all the more remarkable considering the cooperative’s relatively short history. The cooperative’s growth can be attributed to its focus on sustainable beekeeping practices and its commitment to providing its members with the necessary resources and support to succeed.

    Empowering Women in the Industry

    One of the most notable aspects of SCOOPS AMONBA is its commitment to empowering women in the beekeeping industry. With over 60 per cent of its members being women, the cooperative has created a platform for women to take on leadership roles and participate in decision-making processes. This shift towards gender equality has not only benefited the women involved but also contributed to the overall success of the cooperative.

    Sustainable Beekeeping Practices

    SCOOPS AMONBA’s commitment to sustainable beekeeping practices is another key aspect of its success. The cooperative uses environmentally friendly methods to manage its bee colonies, reducing the impact on the environment and promoting biodiversity.

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