By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo
Cameroon’s Prime Minister, Chief Dr. Joseph Dion Ngute, has formally inaugurated a crucial 35km road connecting the West and Northwest regions, a project long hampered by delays and insecurity.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Babadjou–Bamenda stretch took place on September 17 in Matazem, under tight security.
Speaking at the event, Chief Dr. Dion Ngute said the new road would “boost trade, reduce costs for goods, and improve access to markets for farmers and families in the Northwest.”
The government has hailed the completion of the project as a major step toward addressing transport challenges and fostering regional integration, despite years of setbacks, security threats, and accusations of inflated costs.
During his visit, the Prime Minister also inaugurated the Mile 4 bridge, inspected C2D-funded projects, and laid the foundation stone for a new administrative block at the Mile 4 market.
However, the tour was overshadowed by a two-week-long, separatist-enforced lockdown that has reportedly led to several casualties.
The timing of the visit has drawn scrutiny from political commentators, who suggest it could be a strategic move to rally support for President Paul Biya ahead of upcoming presidential elections.
The inauguration of the long-delayed infrastructure is viewed by some as a campaign tool amidst a volatile political and security climate.
