The Cameroun government has secured initial funding to upgrade the critical Douala-Bangui economic corridor, a vital trade artery connecting Cameroun with the Central African Republic. The World Bank has committed $425 million for this first phase, with construction expected to begin next year.
Revitalizing a key trade route
The 800 km corridor, currently in poor condition, serves as a lifeline for regional commerce. Today, 80% of goods bound for the Central African Republic and 70% for Chad pass through this route. The upgrade aims to modernize weighbridge operations and significantly reduce transport delays between the two countries.
«Vehicles suspected of overloading will be automatically directed to weighing stations, where fines, if applicable, will be processed and receipts printed on the spot», explains Donnat Takueté, Director General of Studies at the Ministry of Public Works.
Significant improvements ahead
According to World Bank estimates, the journey from Douala to Bangui—covering 1,400 km—currently takes between 9 to 12 days due to the deteriorating road conditions and 17 informal checkpoints. The first phase of financing will prioritize Cameroun, with $425 million allocated, while the Central African Republic will receive $90 million. Additional regional support will prepare for future phases of the project.
«This corridor will streamline trade flows and reduce operational costs for businesses», states Anne-Cécile Souhaid, World Bank Director for West and Central Africa.
Expanding infrastructure and economic opportunities
In Cameroun, the project includes reconstructing and rehabilitating key sections, such as the 215 km Yaoundé-Douala route, the 332 km Yaoundé-Bonis-Ayos segment, and the 332 km Bonis-Bertoua stretch, totaling 800 km of roads. These improvements are designed to align with economic expectations and will create between 2,000 to 4,000 direct and indirect jobs over several years.
