The Uptake of Farming Technological Innovations for Food Security in Kejom Ketinguh in the North-West Region of Cameroon: A Contribution to Anthropology of Food Production

Abstract

Traditional farming systems are very common in most agrarian societies in sub-Saharan Africa. These farming systems are gradually facing challenges in maintaining high yields that can ensure food security. This chapter seeks to examine the farming technological innovations that the Kejom Ketinguh people have adopted as a solution to the failing traditional farming system to boost food production, hence guarantee of food security. In order to gather data for this study, a qualitative method was employed where interviews and focus group discussions were used. Content analysis was used to analyse the data through interviews and focus group discussions. The analyses in this chapter reveal diverse issues, of which some are worth mentioning here. First, the uptake of farming technological innovations in the area of study has enabled increase in food production; second, food production, especially market gardening, is carried out throughout the year, irrespective of the season. Third, most traditional farming techniques, which are not productive, have gradually phased out. Fourth, the adapted farming innovation practices are gradually integrated in the cultural mores of the Kejom people, thus making it more comprehensible for food production, hence securing food at all times for the people. The findings in this chapter disclose that with the uptake of farming technological innovations in the area of study, and possibly beyond, food production is being ensured throughout the year. Continuous food production guarantees food security, which is a fundamental human right to all persons irrespective of age.