(Business in Cameroon) – Cameroon’s reelected President Paul Biya has pledged to focus on job creation, women’s empowerment, and strategic state investments as he embarks on his eight mandate, following his swearing-in ceremony in Yaounde on Wednesday, November 6. Speaking before Members of Parliament, the President highlighted the economic and social priorities that will guide his seven-year mandate, emphasising youth employment, infrastructure development, and education reform as central pillars of national progress.
President Biya announced a special plan to promote youth employment from the first month of his seven-year term. “Firstly, the establishment of administrative and fiscal facilities for private companies in exchange for the obligation for them to hire young people,” he said. He also stressed support for young entrepreneurs through financing and mentoring schemes in partnership with local banks and international donors. Sectors such as digital technology, mining, agriculture, and services will receive particular focus for enterprise development, reflecting the government’s aim to stimulate sustainable job creation.
To further expand opportunities, the President emphasised that state resources would increasingly target labour-intensive projects. “From the next financial year, a proportion of the state’s investment budget will be devoted to carrying out labour-intensive works for the benefit of young people throughout the territory,” the President stated. He underlined the need for collaboration with local authorities and associations to maximise opportunities for the youth.
Women and Education: Key Priorities
The President confirmed that women’s empowerment and education would remain central to government action. “Trades and other activities that particularly attract young girls and women will benefit from greater state support, particularly financial support,” he said.
President Biya also announced the resumption of doctoral studies in universities and the relaunch of entrance examinations for higher teacher training colleges during the current academic year, intended to expand educational and professional opportunities. The President also committed to improving protection for women and young people in educational and professional environments, noting that these measures were informed by consultations with Cameroonians both at home and abroad.
Infrastructure and Governance Reforms
Beyond human capital development, the President pledged to accelerate ongoing projects in strategic sectors including energy, water, road infrastructure, and public health. He also committed to intensify anti-corruption measures and introduce reforms in Parliament aimed at improving state efficiency. “We must ensure that the institutions of the state are adapted to the requirements of our environment,” he said, highlighting the government’s commitment to modernising both governance and economic management.
Security and Stability as Economic Pillars
President Biya underlined that sustainable economic development depends on security and stability. He noted improvements in regions affected by terrorism and armed groups, attributing progress to the “effective action of our defence and security forces” and the commitment of local populations. Reconstruction and reintegration programmes are ongoing, allowing affected communities to return to normal economic and social life. The President also called on traditional leaders, elites, and local stakeholders to promote disarmament and community dialogue, which would facilitate the reintegration of young people and support regional development.
National Unity and Economic Cohesion
Concluding his address, Biya emphasised national cohesion as essential to economic advancement. “This country is our common heritage. It is our most precious asset. We must build, solidify, and modernise our country, not destroy it. Enough of the speeches of hatred that flood the public space and especially social media,” he stated.
Mercy Fosoh
