At investment forum: East Regional Council seals deals to boost energy, transport infrastructure.

The agreements were signed with the Rural Electrification Agency, AER, and the National Shippers’ Council, CNCC. 

According to officials, the partnership with AER is expected to support efforts to improve rural electrification and energy production. The agreement with the CNCC covers transport-related infrastructure. It includes the development of stopover and rest areas as well as the possibility of constructing dry ports along major transport corridors.

The forum brought together government officials, business leaders, SME promoters and investors from several countries. Discussions centred on the theme: “Investing in the East: Opportunities, Innovation and Sustainable Development”. 

The gathering was organised by the East Regional Council within the framework of the Bagofit International Business Week, BIBW. It also took place ahead of the third edition of the Chantal Biya International Mountain Bike Race.

Talking to the press at the close of the forum, the East Regional Council President, Alphonse Mbele Woumane, said the forum had enabled the institution to engage potential development partners. He disclosed that more discussions were expected through business-to-business meetings.

“The forum gave us the opportunity to meet many potential partners, including those with whom we signed agreements,” Woumane said.

Opening the forum, the Governor of East Region, Grégoire Mvongo, presented economic opportunities associated with the region’s strategic position within the Central African sub-region. On his part, the Minister of Public Service and Administrative Reform, Joseph Le, promoter of the Bagofit International Business Week, expressed hope that the forum would produce concrete results.

Mining, tourism opportunities showcased

At the forum, investors were briefed on priority sectors identified under the East Regional Development Plan. Expert presentations showcased the region’s mining and geological potential. Tourism and leisure were also presented as potential areas for investment. Discussions covered the development of regional wildlife parks and the financing of logistics parks.

The Regional Council said the forum was intended to connect local and international partners with projects that could contribute to the region’s industrial and sustainable development. 

According to Woumane, the agreement with the CNCC could support the development of facilities for transporters, particularly along the Douala-Bangui and Douala-N’Djamena corridors. He said the partnership also provides for training and support for small transport infrastructure.

Organisers said the East Investment Forum is designed as a platform for presenting the region’s economic potential and facilitating partnerships between public institutions, businesses and investors. Organisers say the maiden edition featured workshops and B2B meetings, where investors examined possible investments in infrastructure, energy, mining, logistics, tourism and other sectors identified in the region’s development plan.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3876 of Wednesday August 12, 2026