The Cameroon Living Lab is proud to announce the successful integration of cauliflower (Brassica botrytis), cabbage (Brassica capitata), and basil (Ocimum basilicum) into their outdoor circular farming solution system. These versatile crops are now flourishing in an innovative system that promotes sustainable practices.
Today, the Njala University Living Lab harvested 1.3 kg of fresh okra. Demonstrating their commitment to enhancing both food systems and community well-being, the Living Lab team promptly distributed the harvest products to local residents. By sharing their produce, the Njala University Living Lab continues to make meaningful contributions to local food security and community development.
Students at the Njala University Living Lab have achieved a remarkable milestone – harvesting an impressive 7.3 kilograms of okra. This achievement highlights their dedication to contributing to the project’s success and enhancing food production in general.
The Cameroon Living Lab recently conducted an onboarding training workshop for partners from the Bamenda University of Science and Technology (BUST) Living Lab. The workshop focused on essential topics of aquaponics, including systems management, water quality parameters, and fish feed and feeding. By covering these areas, the workshop ensured that all participants are well-prepared to support the Living Lab’s mission of advancing innovative and sustainable aquaculture practices.
Our partners had an interesting visit among themselves. Representatives from Aglobe Development Center and Universität der Bundeswehr München (UniBw M) recently visited the African Rural and Agricultural Credit Association (AFRACA) to discuss the open call. With the INCiTiS-FOOD Open Calls approaching this meeting served as a good starting point for future developments. This initiative underscores the commitment of both institutions to drive sustainable agricultural practices and enhance food security. Stay tuned for more updates on this promising collaboration.
The Cameroon Living Lab is actively reaching out to the community by distributing high-quality catfish products. This initiative aims to support local nutrition and promote sustainable food sources. By connecting directly with residents, the project strengthens community ties and encourages local economic growth.
The Aglobe Development Center is conducting biweekly capacity-building training to enhance skills and knowledge among participants. These sessions are designed to empower individuals with the necessary tools for growth. The initiative aims to foster a stronger, more capable community through continuous learning opportunities.
The University of Ibadan recently hosted a successful training session on June 28th and 29th, attracting a large number of participants. Attendees engaged in hands-on activities, constructing aquaponic and hydroponic units, and gaining practical experience. The University of Ibadan Living Lab has now established a true experimental setup with control tanks and aquaponics treatment tanks functioning as Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS). This initiative aims to improve the efficiency of aquaponics through insightful research. Currently, seedlings are in the nursery, and grow beds are being prepared with nutrient buildup at the Living Lab.
Egerton Living Lab is training and onboarding farmers for the INCiTiS-FOOD Farmers Training program. This comprehensive three-day session focuses on techniques in hydroponic and aquaponic farming, along with specialised training in black soldier fly (BSF) farming.
The program aims to equip participants with practical skills and knowledge crucial for sustainable agricultural practices. In addition to farmers, secondary school groups have also joined the Egerton Living Lab to gain insights into the operation of the Living Lab, fostering a new generation of environmentally-conscious agriculturalists.
Njala University Living Lab is preparing coconut coir as a root medium for aquaponics and hydroponics systems. Coconut coir, derived from the husk of coconuts, is proving to be an excellent alternative to traditional soil, offering enhanced water retention and nutrient distribution.
Aquaponics and hydroponics, techniques that cultivate plants without soil, are gaining popularity for their efficiency and reduced environmental impact. By integrating coconut coir as a root medium, Njala University Living Lab is not only advancing agricultural practices but also opening doors for local entrepreneurs to explore new markets and profit from sustainable farming practices.
