Cameroun: $425 million allocated to revitalize the Douala-Bangui economic corridor
The World Bank has committed $425 million to modernize the 800 km route linking Douala (Cameroun) to Bangui (Central African Republic). Construction is slated to begin next year, with the project aiming to streamline trade flows that currently rely heavily on this deteriorating infrastructure.
Modernizing trade logistics through smart infrastructure
The project introduces automated weighing stations to curb overloaded vehicles and reduce transit times. “Vehicles suspected of overload will undergo automatic weighing at the stations, with fines issued immediately upon detection,” explains Donnat Takueté, Director General of Studies at the Ministry of Public Works. Currently, the journey between Douala and Bangui takes 9 to 12 days due to poor road conditions and 17 informal checkpoints along the route.
Regional economic impact and phased funding
The World Bank’s initial funding focuses on Cameroun, with $425 million allocated, while Central African Republic receives $90 million. Additional regional support will prepare for future project phases. “This first phase prioritizes Cameroun because 80% of goods bound for the Central African Republic and 70% for Chad currently pass through this corridor,” notes Anne-Cécile Souhaid, World Bank Director for West and Central Africa.
The rehabilitation plan includes reconstructing the Yaoundé-Douala section (215 km), upgrading Yaoundé-Bonis-Ayos (332 km), and improving Bonis-Bertoua, totaling 800 km of roads. This initiative is expected to create 2,000 to 4,000 direct and indirect jobs over several years.
Minister of Public Works Emmanuel Nganou Djoumessi emphasizes the project’s alignment with economic expectations: “This infrastructure upgrade will enhance trade efficiency and connectivity across the subregion.”
Long-term vision for regional trade
The corridor’s upgrade represents a strategic investment in Cameroun’s role as a logistics hub. With automated systems reducing delays and corruption risks, the project aims to foster sustainable economic growth and regional integration.