Cameroon Enhances Infrastructure with 2026 Budget Plan
The Cameroonian government is poised to make substantial improvements in infrastructure and reform through its 2026 budget plan. Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute unveiled this strategic framework during a National Assembly session on November 26, 2025. This initiative is part of President Paul Biya’s broader vision articulated in his inaugural address on November 6, 2025.
Key Focus Areas of the 2026 Budget Plan
The 2026 Economic, Financial, Social, and Cultural Programme emphasizes several critical areas:
- Youth development
- Women’s empowerment
- Expansion of educational opportunities
Educational Initiatives
Significant educational reforms include:
- Reopening of PhD programs at state universities
- Reintroduction of competitive exams for teacher training colleges
- A national spatial plan designed to foster youth employment
Prime Minister Ngute highlighted the government’s dedication to job creation. Investments in labor-intensive projects are aimed at improving economic prospects for youth and women throughout the country.
Infrastructure Development Plans
The budget allocates funds for essential infrastructure upgrades. Key plans include the rehabilitation of 335 kilometers of asphalt roads and over 1,500 meters of engineering structures. The following road projects will progress in 2026:
- 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 notable projects include the continuation of the Garoua bypass, featuring a second bridge over the Benue River and a bridge over the Ntem River.
Diplomatic and Political Reforms
The government is also focused on strengthening Cameroon’s diplomatic profile. This involves diversifying international partnerships and enhancing diplomatic tools as the country prepares to host the 14th World Trade Organisation Ministerial Conference from March 26-29, 2026.
On the political front, the administration plans to monitor political party activities and effect reforms regarding associations and civil society organizations. These steps aim to promote political stability and ensure regulatory coherence.
In his speech, Prime Minister Ngute urged lawmakers to back the 2026 development agenda, underscoring its vital role in promoting national unity and elevating living standards throughout Cameroon.
