The Contrat de Désendettement et de Développement (C2D) has marked 20 years of partnership between Cameroon and France, transforming the landscape of Douala and improving living conditions for its residents. To commemorate this milestone, a series of activities were held from October 24-27, highlighting the achievements of this partnership in urban planning, agriculture, and vocational training. The C2D has invested over 180 billion FCFA in various projects, significantly impacting the region's development.
The C2D's urban development component has had a significant impact on Douala, with 51.5 billion FCFA invested in upgrading several isolated neighborhoods, including Ndogbong, Bépanda Yoyong, and Makèpè Missokè. The project has rehabilitated 8 km of roads and improved public spaces. Additionally, 6.20 km of roads were upgraded in the central market and Independence Avenue areas. These efforts have greatly improved the urban landscape and living conditions for residents.
A significant component of the C2D has been the improvement of Douala's drainage system, with 109 billion FCFA invested in the project. The funding includes a 73.4 billion FCFA loan from the French Development Agency (AFD), a 23.982 billion FCFA contribution from the Cameroonian government, and an 11.8 billion FCFA C2D subsidy. The project has resulted in the construction of 47 km of drains and service roads, significantly reducing the risk of flooding and improving circulation.
The C2D has also invested approximately 15.4 billion FCFA in improving living conditions in nine neighborhoods. The upgrades include 5.5 km of paved roads, 3.25 km of health paths, 264 solar streetlights, 22 public squares, five multisport fields, and five children's play areas. These improvements have greatly enhanced the quality of life for residents in these neighborhoods.
The impact of the C2D's investments is evident in various sectors, including agriculture and vocational training. Although specific details on these sectors were not provided, the project's overall goal is to promote sustainable development and improve living standards in the Littoral region. The partnership between Cameroon and France has been instrumental in driving these development efforts.
Jérôme Notebaert, Director of the AFD in Cameroon, emphasized that the collaboration with the Urban Community will continue to finance drainage works, as significant needs remain. This ongoing partnership will help address the region's development challenges and ensure the sustainability of the projects implemented.
The C2D's 20-year partnership with Cameroon has demonstrated the positive impact of collaborative development efforts. With over 180 billion FCFA invested in various projects, the Littoral region has seen significant transformations, improving the lives of its residents and setting a model for future development initiatives.
Key points
- Over 180 billion FCFA invested in Littoral region development projects
- C2D partnership between Cameroon and France marks 20 years
- Investments have improved urban planning, agriculture, and vocational training in the region
