Cameroon is ranked 18th worldwide on the scale of banana production. Statistics indicate that more than 355,000 hectares of land is used for the growth of bananas in Cameroon. In Afro-Caribbean countries, Cameroon is the number one producer of bananas.
Cavendish – This is the most popular banana variety. When ripe, the fruit is bright yellow.
Ladyfingers – This variety is also known as sweet bananas in some regions. The fruit is shorter, and as the name suggests, more delicious.
Plantain – The plantain variety is green in color. It is mostly consumed after cooking.
Bananas in Cameroon are available throughout the year. The time of planting to harvest is about nine months to a year. The highest yield of bananas is realized when the plant is grown in rich and fertile soil.
The harvesting of bananas in Cameroon is done around two weeks before the banana ripens. Harvested bananas are stored in cold, dry storages to keep them fresh. Bananas are, in most times, packaged in boxes. These boxes are put onto pallets, which are then loaded in containers.
The availability of Cameroon bananas throughout the year is an added advantage that ensures that farmers and traders earn from the crop through the year. The demand and export market for Cameroon bananas is also continually expanding.
