Olam Agri Launches Bake & Shine Initiative to Empower Women in Cameroon
Douala, Cameroon– (12/09/2025) – Olam Agri has officially launched the Bake & Shine Initiative in Cameroon, equipping women from the Littoral region with essential skills in baking and confectionery as a pathway to entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihoods. This programme reaffirms the company’s commitment to empowering women and fostering resilient, thriving communities across Cameroon.
Over the course of four days, 80 participants gathered at Olam Agri’s wheat facility in Bekoko for hands-on training in preparing popular products such as beignets, chin chin, doughnuts, baked peanuts, cakes, and cupcakes. Beyond practical sessions, the women received vital training in bookkeeping, savings management, online sales strategies, and leveraging social media for product placement and marketing.
In addition to skills development, participants benefited from free health screenings for cardiovascular conditions such as hypertension and diabetes, conducted by the Bondeko Foundation Medical Clinic. They also toured Olam Agri’s wheat mill, gaining insight into the production process behind the flour they will use in their businesses. At the close of the programme, 50 women were presented with startup kits containing essential equipment, including mixing machines, flour basins, pots, and baking tools to help them launch or grow their businesses. Each participant also received a certificate of completion.
Speaking at the event, Veeresh Mallikarjun Hiremath, Country Head and Business Head for Grains in Cameroon, emphasised:
“This initiative perfectly embodies our commitment to creating sustainable value and enhancing lives within the communities we serve. By empowering these women with marketable skills, we are fostering entrepreneurship and building a future where they can unlock their full potential and positively contribute to society.”
Djomou Nathan, General Manager and National Sales Manager for the Grains business in Cameroon, added: “This project is significant as it opens new doors for women to develop skills that pave the way for independent and fulfilling livelihoods. We deeply appreciate the women’s enthusiasm throughout the training and practical sessions and look forward to witnessing the lasting impact this initiative will bring.”
Olam Agri remains committed to advancing opportunities for women, enabling them to build self-sufficient and meaningful lives.
