(Business in Cameroon) – The Cameroon Water Utilities Corporation (CAMWATER) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) have signed an amendment to their existing framework agreement to strengthen cooperation and clarify the financial implementation of joint water projects. The accord was signed in Yaounde by CAMWATER’s Director General, Dr Blaise Moussa, and the ICRC’s new Head of Delegation in Cameroon, Yann Bonzon.
The updated partnership aims to improve access to safe drinking water, particularly in vulnerable and underserved communities. According to CAMWATER, the new agreement provides a clear financial roadmap that defines each partner’s role in project execution. It is expected to enhance efficiency, transparency, and the sustainability of future water projects. Data from Cameroon’s Ministry of Water and Energy indicate that only about 60% of the country’s population has access to potable water, with rural coverage remaining below 40%.
Speaking at the signing, Dr Blaise Moussa said the agreement “marks a strong signal of CAMWATER’s commitment to accelerate efforts in providing safe drinking water to all Cameroonians.” He added that the collaboration reflects the utility’s determination to work with trusted international partners to improve public welfare. Yann Bonzon reaffirmed the ICRC’s readiness to support Cameroon’s efforts to enhance living conditions, especially for communities affected by humanitarian challenges.
The ICRC, which has been active in Cameroon since the 1970s, has contributed to restoring water access in conflict-affected regions such as the Far North and North-West. CAMWATER, a state-owned utility responsible for managing urban water supply, has also intensified infrastructure investments in recent years. According to the African Development Bank, Cameroon’s water sector needs more than CFA 400 billion ($ 711 million) in investments by 2030 to achieve universal access targets.
Mercy Fosoh
