Reflections on three decades of Farm Radio partnership (by James Achanyi-Fontem, Executive Director, Cameroon Link)

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As the Developing Countries Farm Radio Network, now known as Farm Radio International, celebrates its 30th anniversary, I can only say, “Congratulations for all the achievements in 30 years and Happy Birthday.” I am really proud to have joined the network as an affiliate member and contributor over 25 years ago, especially as my work expanded with the growth of the network. Belonging to Developing Countries Farm Radio Network was seen as a give and take arrangement with positive exchanges and information sharing. Apart from contributing from Cameroon, I assisted staff members of the network who visited Cameroon and other Central African countries with the collection of materials for compiling the radio programs put on radio cassettes when the initiative just started. I was nominated for the George Atkins Communication Award and got it in 1996.

Due to the commitment to serve the communities with the techniques learnt through Farm Radio International, I was exposed to many international networks in various special fields useful to the development of my country. I later on understood that more impact was got through specialization and decided to take health and environmental development as the special target of Cameroon Link.

Specialization and hard work paid off, as I am today the leader of groups at various levels, starting from my own country: Executive Director of Cameroon Link, President of the Federation of Cameroon Breastfeeding Promotion Associations (FECABPA), and the International Coordinator of the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action’s (WABA) Men’s Initiative.

At all these levels, I have used the skills learnt through my involvement with Farm Radio International to expand my work. Working and sharing with Farm Radio International is another way of learning about the world we live in.

Once again, Happy Birthday to all connected to Farm Radio International!