A Testament to Sino-Cameroonian Friendship in New National Assembly Complex

By Boris Esono Nwenfor

BUEA, Cameroon – A sophisticated new parliament building now dominates the Ngoa Ekela neighbourhood in Cameroon’s political capital Yaoundé, demonstrating the power of Sino-Cameroonian relations. On November 30, China officially handed over the state-of-the-art facility to Cameroon in a ceremony attended by Cavaye Yeguie Djibril, Speaker of the National Assembly, among government and diplomatic officials.

Describing the 15-story complex as the “largest, most beautiful and of incomparable comfort in all of Africa,” the speaker of the National Assembly, Cavaye Yeguie Djibril, called it the most precious gift China has given to the Cameroonian people.

“This day will remain memorable, it is historic. This is a good example of a true friendship. As the saying goes, a friend in need is a friend indeed. The entire Cameroonian people in oneness say thank you (to China),” Cavaye said.

The new parliament building, constructed by Beijing Urban Construction Group Co., Ltd. (BUCG) over five years, addresses long-standing challenges, including the inadequate space of the current bicameral parliament and the aftermath of a 2017 fire that partially destroyed the old structure.

A Landmark of Collaboration

The architectural jewel features a 400-seat hemicycle, modern office spaces, a celebration hall, and facilities designed for inclusivity, catering to women, men, and people with disabilities. It also boasts auxiliary structures, including fountains, parking lots, and a plaza, all integrating Cameroonian motifs with Chinese craftsmanship.

“This modern infrastructure is designed to foster collaboration and dialogue between members of parliament,” said Lawson Tabot, a National Assembly member. “Each member will work in an environment conducive to consultation.”

Muyali Meboka, another parliamentarian, highlighted the inclusivity of the design, noting its respect for diverse needs and ensuring comfort for all.

A Growing Legacy of Chinese Contributions

The National Assembly building is the latest in a series of iconic projects in Cameroon supported by China. These include the Yaoundé Multipurpose Sports Complex, a hub for sports and culture, and the Yaoundé Gyneco-Obstetrics and Pediatric Hospital, which opened in 2002 as a premier medical institution.

Edward Adamu, another member of the National Assembly, sees these projects as evidence of the benefits of South-South cooperation.

"We have had bitter experiences working with Western countries, but the South-South cooperation shows that this is the path forward," Adamu said. "It is a win-win relationship, no longer do you win, and I lose."

Transferring Skills, Building Futures

Beyond its physical grandeur, the project symbolizes a transfer of skills and economic collaboration. More than 1,000 Cameroonians were employed during the construction phase, working alongside Chinese experts.

“At the beginning, the cooperation followed a master-apprentice model, with one Chinese worker training four or five local workers,” said Cui Jinping, BUCG project manager. “After training, local workers could complete almost all the construction tasks independently.”

Jean Atangana, a Cameroonian construction worker, praised the experience as a career highlight. "I admire the exquisite skills of my Chinese colleagues. It's a great respect and honour to build my country together with them," he said.

The ceremony underscored the enduring partnership between China and Cameroon, marked by shared goals and mutual respect. Speaker Cavaye noted that the relationship has weathered crises in Cameroon over recent decades, with China consistently standing by its side.

“This National Assembly consolidates a friendship that was already very solid,” he said. “Through thick and thin, China was constantly present alongside Cameroon, tirelessly continuing the work of building ever-fruitful cooperation.”