On May 11, 2026, transport and logistics stakeholders from Cameroon, Chad, and the Central African Republic convened in N’Djamena for the fifth tripartite forum focused on advancing regional transit of goods through Cameroonian ports. The two-day event brought together port authorities, logistics operators, and government officials to tackle persistent bottlenecks that continue to hinder cross-border trade among the three nations.
The gathering took place at a critical juncture as landlocked Chad and the Central African Republic rely heavily on the ports of Douala and Kribi for their import and export activities. Discussions led by key figures such as Fatima Goukouni Weddeye, Jean Ernest Masséna Ngallè Bibéhè, and the Central African Republic’s transport ministry representative centered on key priorities: securing transit routes, eliminating roadblock extortion, harmonizing trade regulations, and trimming transit delays.
Beyond technical solutions, this forum underscored a shared political commitment to deepening economic integration across Central Africa. The three countries are working toward a more competitive logistics framework to bolster regional commerce and attract foreign investment. Expected outcomes include faster cargo movement, reduced transport expenses, and tighter coordination between port authorities and customs services. For Cameroon, a major strategic goal is to reinforce the role of its port infrastructure as a gateway for subregional trade.
Key challenges and strategic priorities
- Security concerns along transit corridors threaten the smooth flow of goods, prompting calls for reinforced patrols and stricter enforcement against illegal roadblocks.
- Regulatory fragmentation across the three countries complicates customs procedures, creating delays and increasing costs for traders.
- Infrastructure gaps in road and rail networks limit capacity, making it difficult to handle growing trade volumes efficiently.
Pathways to progress
The forum laid out actionable steps to address these issues. Delegates proposed creating a unified transit zone that would simplify border crossings and reduce administrative hurdles. Another proposal involved launching joint patrols along critical routes to deter theft and extortion. Improving digital tracking systems for cargo was also highlighted as a way to enhance transparency and speed up inspections.
The gathering concluded with a roadmap for short- and long-term reforms, including pilot projects to test harmonized transit procedures. Participants agreed that sustained high-level political will is essential to implement these changes and ensure that Central Africa’s trade potential is fully unlocked.
