By Boris Esono Nwenfor
BUEA, Cameroon – Prime Minister Head of Government Joseph Dion Ngute, on Wednesday, November 26, presented the government’s strategic roadmap for 2026 before members of the National Assembly, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to President Paul Biya’s recently outlined national vision. The session, chaired by House Speaker Cavaye Yeguie Djibril, highlighted major reforms and infrastructure projects expected to shape Cameroon’s political, social, and economic landscape next year.
Speaking at the plenary, the Prime Minister stressed that the 2026 Economic, Financial, Social and Cultural Programme was “fully in line with the instructions of the Head of State,” referencing President Biya’s inaugural speech of November 6, 2025. He underscored the government’s determination to work toward “a united, stable and prosperous Cameroon,” with policy actions geared particularly toward young people and women.
At the heart of the 2026 programme is a deliberate emphasis on youth development and the empowerment of women. The Prime Minister announced the reopening of PhD programmes in state universities, an important policy reversal aimed at strengthening academic research and higher learning.
He also revealed the re-launch of competitive entrance examinations into teacher training colleges and the introduction of a national spatial plan to promote youth employment. The government, he added, will increase investment in labour-intensive projects to create jobs and stimulate local economies.
“These initiatives reflect our unwavering commitment to improving the social, economic and professional prospects of young Cameroonians and women,” Prime Minister Dion Ngute said.
State Reforms and Infrastructure Acceleration
The 2026 budget, Dion Ngute noted, will drive accelerated reforms intended to boost state performance, modernise public administration, and strengthen the efficiency of public policies. Priority will also be given to ongoing infrastructure works.
The government plans to rehabilitate 335 kilometres of asphalt roads and more than 1,500 meters of engineering structures, in addition to continuing the second phase of the Yaounde-Douala motorway.
Several major road projects are set to begin, including: Ebolowa–Kribi road (179 km); Bina–Mokranz–Andi road (143 km); Fedak–Babji–Beka–Butu–Lewa–Bikop road (145 km); Ndolape–Kampo express road (39 km); Gaou–Edéa–Kribi road (110 km) and the Nkambe–Garoua road (242 km).
Work will also continue on the Garoua bypass, including construction of a second bridge over the Benue River and the bridge over the Ntem River.
Under President Biya’s leadership, the government aims to intensify Cameroon’s diplomatic outreach. Plans include diversifying international partnerships, strengthening the country’s access to strategic positions globally, and modernising diplomatic tools.
The Prime Minister highlighted preparations for the 14th World Trade Organisation Ministerial Conference, which Cameroon will host from March 26-29, 2026, a major event expected to elevate the country’s global standing.
In the sphere of territorial administration, the government will focus on monitoring political party activities and engaging in reforms governing associations and civil society organisations. These measures, Dion Ngute said, are necessary to maintain political stability and ensure regulatory coherence.
Prime Minister Dion Ngute called on lawmakers to support the government’s development agenda, emphasising that the 2026 programme represents a critical step toward strengthening national unity, deepening reforms, and improving living standards across the country.
