(Business in Cameroon) – Camrail launched on September 23 in Douala a preliminary consultation for the renewal of the Douala–Yaoundé and Bélabo–Ngaoundéré lines. The step aims to outline project phases and technical requirements, identify potential risks, and attract interested firms ahead of tenders scheduled between late 2025 and the first half of 2026.
The first project, backed by CFA152 billion in World Bank financing, covers the renewal of 238 km of track between Douala and Yaoundé. It includes replacing rails and bi-block concrete sleepers, automating level crossings, and rehabilitating engineering structures such as viaducts, tunnels, bridges, and drainage systems. Centralized signaling, onboard signaling, and automatic train and crossing control are also planned.
The second project, financed with CFA167.3 billion from the European Investment Bank (EIB), the European Union (EU), and the French Development Agency (AFD), involves 330 km of track renewal between Bélabo and Ngaoundéré. Works will include automation of level crossings, bridge rehabilitation, slope stabilization, and deep drainage.
Open tenders and economic constraints
Camrail said the tenders will be open to both national and international companies with the necessary expertise. Local firms may bid directly or through subcontracting. However, volatility in global steel prices poses a key risk, requiring bidders to show strong financial capacity to avoid delays.
Selected contractors will also be required to recruit at least 30% local labor. Construction is expected to begin in the first half of 2027 and conclude in 2030.
Beyond rail infrastructure, the projects carry a strong social component, including water boreholes, upgraded schools and health centers, and support for income-generating activities.
The Bélabo–Ngaoundéré project (PRBN) is designed to improve performance and safety on the railway corridor linking northern Cameroon to Chad. Camrail noted that about CFA500 billion will be invested in improving road and rail infrastructure along the Douala–Ndjamena corridor.
The Regional Project for the Improvement of Rail/Road Performance on the Douala–Ndjamena Corridor (PCDN) is expected to significantly cut logistics costs, enhance competitiveness, and strengthen connectivity between Cameroon and Chad. The corridor accounts for 35% of the combined GDP of both countries and remains vital for regional and international trade.
