(Business in Cameroon) – Five local councils in Cameroon have been awarded a total of CFAF 250 million after achieving full execution of their Public Investment Budgets (PIB) in 2024. The awards were presented by the Ministry of Economy, Planning and Regional Development (MINEPAT) under the first edition of the “Model Councils” initiative.
Each council; Idenau (South-West), Ndélélé (East), Nkambe (North-West), Nyambaka (Adamawa) and Petté (Far North), received CFAF 50 million. The prize money is earmarked for further development projects within the councils, including the construction and rehabilitation of schools and health centres, expansion of water supply networks, improvement of rural road infrastructure, and the implementation of small-scale agricultural initiatives. By linking the awards directly to ongoing and new projects, the initiative is designed to ensure that financial discipline translates into tangible benefits for local communities.
Three of the five award-winning councils are located in regions affected by security or humanitarian challenges, the North-West, South-West, and Far North. Efficient execution of investment budgets in these areas is critical to restoring basic services, supporting local economies, and improving resilience.
Official data indicate the councils reached 100% or near-100% execution of their investment budgets. Completed projects included schools, health centres, rural roads, and water supply systems, directly supporting local development and improving living standards. The “Model Councils” initiative encourages municipalities to channel public funds into tangible outcomes, strengthening local capacity for planning, budgeting, and implementation.
Nationally, 71.7% of the PIB in 2024 was allocated to infrastructure and production, sectors identified as key drivers of growth and employment. Priorities included road rehabilitation, school construction, health facilities, water supply, and initiatives to boost local production of food and pharmaceuticals under the import-substitution strategy.
Despite strong performance by these councils, disparities persist across the country. Some councils face delays due to limited contractor capacity, logistical constraints in remote areas, and heavy reliance on central government transfers. There are also challenges in mobilising additional local revenue streams beyond statutory allocations.
Analysts note that consistent monitoring, technical support, and strategic resource allocation will be essential to sustain high execution rates. Strengthening financial management at the council level is expected to accelerate infrastructure delivery, improve access to essential services, and create conditions conducive to local economic growth. In regions affected by security and humanitarian issues, these measures are particularly crucial for stabilising communities and enhancing resilience.
By Mercy Fosoh
