Cameroon - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

SAFCC is to promote sustainable agriculture practices and provide certification for farmland in Cameroon. The company aims to support and encourage environmentally friendly agricultural practices, social responsibility, and economic viability.

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

The proposal aims at establishing a certification assessment body for sustainable agriculture in Cameroonwhich would promote and ensure the adoption of sustainable farming practices within the agriculturalsector. The certification body aims to establish a standardized framework and criteria for evaluating e theenvironmental, social, and economic performance of agricultural systems, to promote sustainable farmingpractices in Cameroon. By providing a standardized framework for assessing farm sustainability, thisestablishment will enable farmers, organizations, and policymakers to measure, monitor, and improve thesustainability of farming operations in Cameroon thereby promoting Sustainable agriculture so as toachieve SDG 2.4.1 Targets by 2035.

01.02 What is the main problem you are trying to solve?

In Cameroon, a major challenge in sustainable agriculture is the lack of a comprehensive and standardized framework to evaluate the sustainability of farming practices. This absence makes it difficult to measure and monitor the environmental, social, economic, cultural, and technological aspects of agriculture effectively. Without such a framework, it is hard to identify priority areas for improvement, set sustainability targets, compare different farming systems, and track progress over time. This lack of clarity impedes interventions and investments aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture. Moreover, the absence of reliable data hampers policymakers' ability to develop evidence-based policies and strategies to support sustainable agricultural practices.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your startup provides (at least 3).

1) Promote Sustainable Farming Practices: The primary objective is to promote and encourage the adoption of sustainable farming practices among farmers in Cameroon. By setting specific sustainability standards and criteria, the establishment aims to drive the implementation of practices that protect theenvironment, conserve natural resources, promote biodiversity, and mitigate the negative impacts of agriculture on ecosystems. 2) Contribute to Environmental Conservation and Climate Change Mitigation: An important objective is to contribute to environmental conservation and climate change mitigation efforts. Sustainable agriculture practices can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, conserve water resources, protect biodiversity, and preserve ecosystems. The establishment aims to support these objectives by encouraging and recognizing farmers who adopt sustainable practices that contribute to environmental protection and climate change mitigation. 3) Training and Capacity Building

01.04 Please describe who exactly your startup’s product/service is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

1) Small and Medium-Sized Farmers: Empower them to adopt sustainable farming practices that enhance productivity, income, and resilience Access to markets, training, and resources to implement sustainable practices, improving their economic stability and environmental footprint. 2) Agricultural Cooperatives and Associations: Support collective efforts to promote sustainable farming practices and enhance their members’ market competitiveness 3)Agribusinesses and Agro-processors: Enable them to source sustainably produced raw materials, ensuring compliance with market demands for certified products. 4) Government and Regulatory Bodies: Provide a framework for enforcing sustainable agricultural practices and supporting policy development 5)Consumers and Civil Society Organizations: Promote transparency and consumer trust in sustainably produced agricultural products.

01.05 When was your company established?

2023-07-01

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

Yes

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

3

01.08 Among the other owners, how many are female?

2

01.09 Please describe the profile of the other owners within your startup (skills, experience, etc.)

1) Dr. Ndjussi Arlette is a Dedicated educator and researcher in agronomic valorization and sustainable development,Dr. Ndjussi Arlette holds a Ph.D. in marine sciences, specializing in aquaculture and fishhealth. Currently serving as a lecturer at the University of Douala and the Institute ofFisheries Sciences in Yabassi, Dr. Ndjussi Arlette's expertise spans integrated systems,particularly in aquaponics and integrated fish and plant farming. 2) Aurelie Zanfack, a distinguished graduate of the Asian Rural Institute of Japan,holds a Higher Diploma and a Bachelors in Environment and Agricultural Development. With a practical problem-solving approach, she is passionately committed to advancing her career by championing sustainable agricultural practices and natural resources management. Aurelie's diverse background includes noteworthy roles such as Farm Manager at the Pan African Institute for Development-West Africa, where she skillfully oversaw greenhouse management ,poultry farming,

01.10 If you have a website, a social media page (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin…), or app, please provide the link(s) here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jean-marc-dassi-a7241295/

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

l) Farming

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

Our sustainable agriculture certification service significantly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of No Poverty (SDG 1) by increasing farmers' income through access to premium markets, enhancing their resilience to economic and climate-related shocks, and supporting rural development. By promoting sustainable practices, we help preserve natural resources, improve food security, and create job opportunities, thereby empowering small and medium-sized farmers and agricultural communities. Additionally, our service facilitates better access to financial support and fosters a supportive network, all of which collectively work towards alleviating poverty and ensuring long-term economic stability in rural Cameroon.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

SAFCC contribute to (SDG 2) more specifically to SDG 2.4.1 by improving agricultural productivity and crop yields through sustainable farming practices and training. It enhances food security by promoting crop diversity and ensuring a consistent food supply, while providing farmers with better market access and financial support, thereby increasing their income and economic stability. Additionally, our service helps farmers adapt to climate change and manage resources efficiently, boosting their resilience to environmental stressors. By empowering rural communities and strengthening local food systems, we support overall rural development and work towards eradicating hunger in Cameroon.

02.03.01 My startup contributes to the Good health and well-being goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification for my startup

Concerning Good Health and Well-Being goal (SDG 3) by promoting farming practices that produce healthier, chemical-free food, thus enhancing the nutritional quality of agricultural products. By encouraging the use of natural pest management and organic fertilizers, we reduce farmers' and consumers' exposure to harmful chemicals, leading to better health outcomes. Additionally, our focus on improving farmers' livelihoods through increased income and economic stability supports their overall well-being, reducing stress and enabling access to healthcare. By fostering resilient and sustainable agricultural communities, we contribute to healthier and more sustainable living environments in Cameroon.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

By providing training and educational resources to farmers and agricultural stakeholders on sustainable farming practices. Our startup contributes to the Quality Education goal (SDG 4) this is done Through workshops, technical assistance, and certification programs, we empower farmers with the knowledge and skills necessary to adopt innovative and environmentally friendly farming techniques. This education not only improves agricultural productivity and income but also promotes lifelong learning among farming communities. By enhancing access to quality education in agriculture, we contribute to building a skilled workforce capable of addressing current and future challenges in sustainable food production and rural development in Cameroon.

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

Gender Equality goal (SDG 5) Safcc works toward actively promoting equal participation and empowerment of women in agriculture through our sustainable agriculture certification service. We prioritize inclusivity by ensuring that women farmers have equal access to training, resources, and opportunities to certify their agricultural practices as sustainable. By supporting women's involvement in decision-making processes within farming communities, we aim to reduce gender disparities and enhance their economic empowerment. Additionally, our efforts contribute to improving women's access to markets and financial resources, thereby fostering a more equitable and inclusive agricultural sector in Cameroon.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

6

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

Promoting sustainable agricultural practices that protect water resources and improve water quality. Through our certification service, we advocate for the responsible use of water in farming operations, encouraging efficient irrigation techniques and water conservation measures. By reducing agricultural runoff and contamination from chemical inputs, we help safeguard local water sources and ecosystems. Additionally, our emphasis on organic farming practices minimizes soil erosion and pollution, further contributing to cleaner waterways. By supporting these sustainable practices, we aim to ensure access to clean water and sanitation for rural communities in Cameroon, promoting environmental sustainability and public health.

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

We promote Affordable and Clean Energy goal (SDG 7) by encouraging energy-efficient practices in agriculture and supporting the adoption of renewable energy solutions. Through our sustainable agriculture certification service, we encourage farmers to implement practices that reduce energy consumption, such as using efficient irrigation systems and optimizing farm machinery usage. We also advocate for the integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar power for irrigation pumps and biomass for heating and cooking needs on farms. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting clean energy alternatives, we contribute to mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality. Our efforts support the transition towards affordable and sustainable energy solutions in the agricultural sector, fostering economic savings and environmental stewardship in Cameroon.

02.08.01 My startup contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification for my startup

By fostering economic opportunities and sustainable livelihoods in the agricultural sector. Through our sustainable agriculture certification service, we empower farmers, especially smallholders and cooperatives, by enhancing their market access and enabling them to command better prices for their certified sustainable products. This leads to increased income and economic stability, reducing poverty and promoting inclusive growth. Additionally, our focus on training and capacity building in sustainable farming practices creates employment opportunities within rural communities, supporting job creation and skill development. By promoting fair labor practices and improving productivity through sustainable methods, we contribute to building resilient and thriving agricultural economies in Cameroon.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

6

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

Our startup contributes to achieving Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9) by advocating for and implementing innovative practices in sustainable agriculture. We prioritize the adoption of cutting-edge farming techniques and technologies that not only enhance productivity but also minimize environmental impact. This includes promoting modern irrigation systems, renewable energy applications, and precision agriculture methods to optimize resource utilization and farm efficiency. Through partnerships with agricultural research institutions and technology providers, we facilitate the transfer of knowledge and innovation directly to farmers, empowering them to compete effectively in both local and global markets. Furthermore, our efforts focus on strengthening agricultural infrastructure, such as improving water management systems and fostering sustainable supply chains, which are crucial for ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability and resilience in Cameroon.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

We Reduced Inequalities goal (SDG 10) by promoting inclusivity and equity within the agricultural sector. We prioritize empowering marginalized and vulnerable groups, including smallholder farmers and women, by providing them with access to training, resources, and market opportunities through our sustainable agriculture certification service. By ensuring these groups have equal access to certification and supporting their participation in sustainable farming practices, we aim to reduce economic disparities and enhance their socio-economic status. Additionally, our efforts foster partnerships and collaboration among diverse stakeholders, promoting fair practices and creating a more inclusive agricultural value chain. By advocating for equality in access to resources and opportunities, we contribute to building a more equitable and sustainable agricultural sector in Cameroon, ultimately working towards reducing inequalities in rural communities.

02.11.01 My startup contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

3

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

02.12.01 My startup contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification for my startup

Through our sustainable agriculture certification service, we encourage farmers to adopt environmentally friendly practices that minimize waste, reduce chemical inputs, and conserve natural resources such as water and soil. By certifying products as sustainably produced, we enable consumers to make informed choices that support responsible consumption patterns. Additionally, we advocate for transparency and accountability in agricultural production, ensuring that products meet high standards of environmental and social responsibility. By fostering a culture of sustainability and promoting efficient use of resources, we contribute to sustainable production practices that benefit both people and the planet

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

Safcc contributes significantly to the Climate Action by promoting and implementing sustainable agriculture practices that mitigate climate change impacts. Through our certification service, we advocate for and support farmers in adopting climate-smart techniques such as agroforestry, organic farming, and efficient irrigation systems that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, conserve water, and enhance carbon sequestration in soils. By reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, we help mitigate agricultural contributions to global warming while improving soil health and biodiversity. Additionally, our focus on renewable energy solutions and promoting resilient agricultural practices strengthens the sector's ability to adapt to climate variability and extreme weather events. By empowering farmers with knowledge and tools to mitigate and adapt to climate change, we contribute to building a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector in Cameroon,

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

2

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

4

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

02.16.01 My startup contributes to the Peace Justice and Strong Institutions goal

4

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

Our startup contributes to the Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17) by fostering collaborations and partnerships that promote sustainable agriculture and rural development in Cameroon. We actively engage with various stakeholders including government agencies, NGOs, agricultural cooperatives, research institutions, and private sector entities to enhance our impact and effectiveness. Through these partnerships, we leverage expertise, resources, and networks to support farmers in adopting sustainable practices, accessing markets, and improving livelihoods. By promoting dialogue and cooperation among diverse stakeholders, we aim to build consensus and collective action towards achieving sustainable development goals related to agriculture, poverty alleviation, and environmental conservation. Our commitment to inclusive partnerships ensures that we create lasting positive impacts in communities and contribute to achieving broader development objectives in Cameroon.

06.01 There are a large number of customers who already use a product/service very similar to the product/service we envision creating.

5

06.02 The product/service represents an entirely new type of product/service.

3

06.03 The product/service could be described as a new technology.

3

06.04 The product/service is an improvement on an existing product or service.

6

06.05 The product/service could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

1 - Strongly Disagree

06.06 The product/service responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

5

06.07 The product/service is a new version of an old product/service.

3

06.08 Justification for my startup

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Our main potential competitors include other sustainable agriculture certification bodies, agricultural consulting firms, and organizations promoting environmentally friendly farming practices. What sets us apart is our holistic approach to sustainability, integrating environmental, social, and economic dimensions seamlessly. We not only certify farms but also provide comprehensive support in adopting and improving sustainable practices through tailored training, ongoing technical assistance, and market access facilitation. Our commitment to local empowerment and cultural integration distinguishes us, as we prioritize respecting regional values and customs while promoting economic growth and job creation within communities. Moreover, our emphasis on transparency, reliability of certifications, and alignment with international standards ensures trust among stakeholders. By fostering partnerships and leveraging technology for efficient service delivery, we enhance our competitive edge

11.05 Are you initiating actions within your community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs?