Cameroon to Boost Key Infrastructure with 2026 Budget Plan
The Cameroonian government is set to implement significant infrastructure and reform initiatives in its 2026 budget plan. Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute presented this strategic roadmap during a session at the National Assembly on November 26, 2025. This initiative aligns with President Paul Biya’s national vision outlined in his inaugural speech on November 6, 2025.
Key Focus Areas for 2026 Budget
The 2026 Economic, Financial, Social, and Cultural Programme prioritizes youth development and women’s empowerment. The government plans to enhance educational opportunities by reopening PhD programs in state universities and reintroducing competitive entrance exams for teacher training colleges. Additionally, a national spatial plan will be introduced to foster youth employment.
- Reopening PhD programs at state universities
- Reintroduction of competitive exams for teacher training colleges
- National spatial plan to promote youth employment
Prime Minister Ngute emphasized the government’s commitment to creating jobs through investment in labor-intensive projects. These initiatives aim to enhance the economic prospects for young people and women in Cameroon.
Infrastructure Development Plans
The budget will also focus on vital infrastructure reforms. A total of 335 kilometers of asphalt roads will be rehabilitated, along with over 1,500 meters of engineering structures. The second phase of the Yaoundé-Douala motorway will continue, alongside several new road projects, including:
- Ebolowa–Kribi road (179 km)
- Bina–Mokranz–Andi road (143 km)
- Fedak–Babji–Beka–Butu–Lewa–Bikop road (145 km)
- Ndolape–Kampo express road (39 km)
- Gaou–Edéa–Kribi road (110 km)
- Nkambe–Garoua road (242 km)
Other infrastructure projects include the continuation of the Garoua bypass, which features the construction of a second bridge over the Benue River and a bridge over the Ntem River.
Diplomatic and Political Reforms
The government, under President Biya, is also committed to enhancing Cameroon’s diplomatic outreach. This includes diversifying international partnerships and improving diplomatic tools in preparation for hosting the 14th World Trade Organisation Ministerial Conference from March 26-29, 2026.
In terms of political reforms, the administration will monitor political party activities regulated by law and engage in reforms affecting associations and civil society organizations. These measures aim to uphold political stability and regulatory coherence.
Prime Minister Ngute urged lawmakers to support the 2026 development agenda, emphasizing its importance in strengthening national unity and improving living standards across Cameroon.
