The Kribi-Lolabe highway, a 38.5km section of the Edea-Kribi project, has been opened to traffic in Cameroon. This modern infrastructure features a 2x2 lane highway with the potential to be expanded to 2x3 lanes, complete with a central median. The project aims to improve the competitiveness of the transportation chain, particularly from the Port of Kribi, thereby increasing its attractiveness to users. The highway runs from Mboro village to Bilolo, in the Kribi IIe district.
The new highway is connected to the Port of Kribi via a 1.24km link road and to the Edéa-Kribi national road (No 7) through a 3.7km connecting road from national road No 22 (Yaoundé-Olama-Kribi). In addition to these connecting roads, several ancillary facilities have been built for the local population, including 18 water points and 22.6km of re-established roads. These developments are expected to significantly benefit the communities along the highway.
A notable feature of the Kribi-Lolabe highway is the automatic toll booth at Mbeka’a, the first of its kind in Cameroon. The toll booth has 12 cabins, comprising 5 entrance and 7 exit points. It is equipped with electro-mechanical installations for manual toll cabins and an electronic toll cabin. The successful trial run, attended by government officials and other invitees, demonstrated the functionality of the toll system and saw the issuance of the first tickets.
The tickets issued at the toll booth provide users with essential information, including the amount paid, vehicle type, registration number, and the name of the toll station. The introduction of this modern toll system is expected to enhance the efficiency and transparency of toll collection on the highway. The government has expressed satisfaction with the progress of the project, which is seen as a significant step towards modernizing Cameroon's infrastructure.
The Kribi-Lolabe highway project is a critical component of Cameroon's efforts to improve its transportation network and stimulate economic growth. The highway is expected to facilitate the movement of goods and people, reducing travel times and costs. By enhancing the connectivity of the region, the project aims to promote economic development and improve the quality of life for local communities.
The successful completion of the Kribi-Lolabe highway section is a testament to the government's commitment to investing in infrastructure development. The project has created new opportunities for contractors, suppliers, and local communities, contributing to economic growth and job creation. As the project moves forward, it is expected to have a lasting impact on the region's economic and social landscape.
The Kribi-Lolabe highway is set to play a vital role in Cameroon's economic development, particularly in the transportation of goods and people. With its modern infrastructure and automatic toll system, the highway is poised to become a key artery for trade and commerce in the region. As the country continues to invest in infrastructure development, the Kribi-Lolabe highway serves as a model for future projects.
Key points
- The Kribi-Lolabe highway features a modern automatic toll booth, the first of its kind in Cameroon.
- The 38.5km highway is a critical component of the Edea-Kribi project, aimed at improving the competitiveness of the transportation chain.
- The project includes ancillary facilities such as water points and re-established roads, benefiting local communities.
