Cameroon signs road rehab deal with IDB

Cameroon signed a 212.35 million euro (238 million dollar) financing agreement with the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) on October 13 in Bangkok to rehabilitate the Douala-Bafoussam road corridor. This corridor connects Cameroon’s main port and economic hub to the West region, aiming to improve transport and reduce costs for businesses and farmers.

Project covers major road and infrastructure upgrades

The project includes the rehabilitation of 326 km of roads, with 218 km of national roads and 108 km of access roads. It also involves investments in social and economic infrastructure, such as classrooms, health centers, water supply systems, markets, and agricultural equipment.

IDB has a long history of funding Cameroon

Cameroon joined the IDB in 1977, and the bank has approved a total of 4.22 billion dollars in financing for the country. Current projects focus on sectors like transport, energy, and agriculture, reflecting the IDB’s broader development goals.

Road construction progress mixed in recent years

According to the 2023-2025 triennial report from the Ministry of Public Works, about 1,006 km of bituminous roads were built, meeting 97.18% of the construction target. However, only 74.18% of the target for road rehabilitation was achieved, and just 27% of the allocated funds were used for these projects.