More Than a Bunch of Plantain: A Symbol of a Sustainable Food System
Field Update from Sanki
Armand Blaise Tagne from the Team of City of Ubuntu Cameroon is giving an update from our field in Sanki.
On Friday, September 11, at City of Ubuntu Sanki, Borel and Armand harvested the first bunch of plantain from the field. Produced without synthetic chemical inputs, it is a symbol of a sustainable food system.
The First Plantain Harvest at City of Ubuntu Sanki
Joy could be seen on the faces of Borel and Armand on the afternoon of Friday, September 11, 2026. On the face of Jean de Dieu, who follows the activities of City of Ubuntu Sanki from a distance as if he were right there, as well. And even more so on the face of Basil, who was in the middle of his charitable work.
The reason? The first bunch of plantain from City of Ubuntu Sanki had reached maturity. And it was time for the harvest.
The Cultural Importance of Plantain in Cameroon
In African tradition, and especially in the Grassfields region, plantain has great importance. It is offered to distinguished guests. It is also used for many rituals. It is connected to a number of beliefs and a certain spirituality. It is also used to prepare emblematic dishes.
Over time, plantain has become a major pillar of food security.
Once a sucker is available, it is planted in a prepared area and carefully tended until the time comes for harvest.
Plantain and Sustainable Agriculture at City of Ubuntu Sanki
The bunch we harvested on Friday, September 11, 2026, is above all a symbol of a sustainable food system.
It was never boosted with synthetic chemical inputs. Despite the savanna-like character of the area where the sucker was planted and the harsh climate conditions that are increasingly being intensified by climate change, Basil, in accordance with the principles of City of Ubuntu’s sustainable food system, preferred to apply sheep manure and ash from time to time.
This bunch is therefore free from chemical residues. There were no pesticides and no synthetic fertilisers. Its production followed principles of environmental and human protection. All of its nutritional qualities have been preserved and remain intact.
From Agroecology to Sustainable Food Production
By consuming this fruit of agroecology, we can ask for more and contribute to making it increasingly available.
City of Ubuntu Cameroon is aiming to launch a agroecology pilote project soon. Although it is showing to be challenging in the current geographical, meteorological and societal conditions, we firmly believe that it is the way to go.
Stay tuned for more updates on the project!