At audience with BDEAC official: Minister says gov’t to redirect COVID funds to other areas.

This was during a working session with the Resident Representative of the BDEAC, Tsoye Nkono Jean-Robert.

The meeting, which held at the Ministry of Public Health, aimed to reinforce cooperation between both institutions, focusing on ongoing and upcoming health projects across the country. 

Reports hold that both officials focused on the Boucle du Dja project, which includes a major health component centered on infrastructure and the development of health facilities in the East and South regions of the country.

During discussions, Tsoye Nkono is said to have highlighted the importance of coordination between the Bank and national technical administrations to accelerate project implementation. 

He is said to have stressed that effective collaboration would ensure that financing aligns with local health and socio-economic priorities, especially in underserved areas.

One of the main issues also said to have been discussed was the management of funds initially allocated for the COVID-19 response. 

Dr Manaouda is said to have explained that, given the evolution of the pandemic and emerging challenges, the funds will now be strategically reoriented to strengthen the health sector’s resilience. 

“The COVID funds will not go to waste. They will be used to strengthen our healthcare system and fill funding gaps left by the suspension of certain external aids, notably from the United States,” he stated.

The minister also reaffirmed Cameroon’s willingness to continue working closely with the BDEAC in improving health infrastructure and service delivery.

He commended the Bank’s consistent support, noting its vital role in financing several key development programmes within the Central African sub region.

As a reminder, BDEAC is the regional financial institution dedicated to funding development projects across Central Africa. Through its representation in Cameroon, it has been instrumental in providing resources to sectors such as health, infrastructure, and social development. 

Since 2020, the Ministry of Public Health has overseen various COVID-related funding mechanisms, making financial transparency and project monitoring a top priority.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3623 of Thursday November 13, 2025