By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo
Cameroon and the Saudi Fund for Development have signed a financial agreement of over FCFA 45.83 billion to rehabilitate the 68-kilometre Sorawel–Guider–Mayo Oulo–Dourbeye road in the North Region of the country.
The loan agreement was signed on 23 March in Yaoundé. Alamine Ousmane Mey, Minister of Economy, Planning and Regional Development (MINEPAT), signed on behalf of Cameroon, while Sultan A. Almarshad signed for the Saudi Fund for Development.
Beyond its financial value, officials say the agreement forms part of a broader vision for economic transformation.
Speaking at the signing, Minister Ousmane Mey said that “infrastructure is a key driver of connectivity, mobility, and competitiveness.” He added that the project will help “strengthen national and sub-regional integration and stimulate economic activity.”
The government intends this investment to improve the movement of people and goods, facilitate access to markets and basic social services, and boost agricultural and commercial activity in a high-potential area.
Officials described the signing as a concrete illustration of the strong relations between Cameroon and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, reflecting a shared commitment to sustainably support the country’s economic and social development for the benefit of its people. The step also consolidates long-standing cooperation between the two countries.
Over the years, the Saudi Fund for Development has become a major bilateral partner, financing numerous projects in sectors such as road infrastructure, education, health and agriculture. Roads, universities and hospitals are among the achievements that demonstrate the vitality of the partnership.
Completion of the road is expected to have an impact beyond the immediate area. By facilitating trade within Cameroon and with neighbouring countries—particularly Nigeria, Chad and the Central African Republic—it will help strengthen sub-regional integration and support economic growth. The project should also create jobs, especially for young people and women, and contribute to poverty reduction in the affected areas.
The Yaoundé agreement brings total Saudi Fund financing to Cameroon to US$136 million (approximately FCFA 76 billion), further reinforcing the strategic cooperation. The project is also aligned with the 2020–2030 National Development Strategy and the vision of President Paul Biya to make Cameroon an emerging country based on a competitive, integrated economy.
