Moungo Division: Energy minister inspects electricity pole factory in Souza.

This was during a technical inspection mission which took place April 8. The tour of the SCCP facility included an in-depth look at the manufacturing process.

The member of government and his entourage, during the visit, witnessed the full chain of production from the cutting and shaping of steel reinforcement bars, to the pouring of concrete into moulds, to the curing and final inspection phases.

Accompanied by technical staff and stakeholders in the energy sector, the minister toured the SCCP facility where he received detailed briefings on the plant’s operations. 

Emphasis during the tour was placed on the government’s desire to promote local manufacturing as a viable and strategic alternative to imported infrastructure components.

According to Minister Eloundou Essomba, the visit aimed not only to assess local production capabilities but also to ensure that manufacturing processes meet the highest standards of quality. 

He noted that the poles, which are a key component of the national electrical grid, are part of government’s efforts to enhance the resilience and reliability of electricity distribution across the country.

“This visit is part of our national strategy to localize the production of key infrastructure materials. By producing these poles locally, we reduce costs, create jobs and build industrial expertise right here at home,” Minister Eloundou Essomba said.

The minister equally used the opportunity to underline the critical importance of adhering to rigorous manufacturing protocols, particularly with regard to the structural strength and durability of the poles.

“It is imperative that the manufacturing protocols be scrupulously respected in order to guarantee the quality and conformity of the poles. ENEO, as prime contractor and beneficiary, must ensure the strict application of these standards to ensure the reliability of our electrical network,” the minister insisted.

Speaking during the tour, an official from Energy of Cameroon, ENEO, confirmed that strict technical guidelines had been communicated to all participating companies. 

The official also noted that quality checks are conducted regularly throughout the production cycle to maintain conformity with the required standards.

“The success of this programme depends on maintaining a high level of technical discipline. We are committed to upholding these standards and have systems in place to monitor compliance at each step of the process,” an ENEO engineer said.

Inside the manufacturing process

Technical staff at SCCP at every step explained the importance of each stage in ensuring that the poles can withstand the mechanical and environmental stresses it will face once deployed in the field. 

The factory's engineers showcased their adherence to industry benchmarks and welcomed the visit as a chance to further highlight the factory’s role in national development.

The member of government and his entourage equally visited other key energy projects across the Littoral Region, among them the Missolé, Dibamba, Kalapala and Ngodi Bakoko sites.

At every step, he urged engineers to align with government’s vision for a more reliable, sustainable power network.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3420 of Monday April 14, 2025