Cameroon: guaranteeing transparency to attract more private investment
In his traditional address to the Nation on December 31, Cameroon’s President Paul Biya stressed the importance of governance, focusing on the industrial, energy, health and water sectors.Cameroon is aiming for 8% GDP growth by 2030. To achieve this objective, the country is projecting growth of 4.1% in 2025, after 3.8% in 2024. This is in line with the objectives set out in its National Development Strategy (SND30). One of the key measures taken to curb inflation, which fell from 7.4% in 2023 to 5% in 2024, is to control speculative behavior and increase the supply of basic necessities. This dynamic is set to continue, with inflation forecast at 4% in 2025.
Industrialization: the engine of emergence
The President highlighted the major advances made in the industrial sector, described as the keystone of economic emergence. Emblematic initiatives include the integrated industrial zone at the autonomous port of Kribi, dedicated to cocoa, coffee and rubber processing; the construction of two economic zones specializing in wood processing in Edéa and Bertoua; and the opening of Central Africa’s largest tile production plant in Bipaga (Kribi), with 2,500 direct jobs created.
Diversification of export products, now focused on industrial goods such as aluminum, should intensify thanks to the reform of the National Investment Company (SNI). Meanwhile, the long-awaited Ouassa Babouté agro-industrial technopole in Nkoteng, dedicated to the production and processing of cereals and dairy products, could finally see the light of day in 2025. These projects are also accompanied by the launch of a sixth cement plant, which has already led to a drop in cement prices on the national market.
Strategic investments in natural resources
Prospects in the mining sector reinforce optimism. In 2025, the Kribi-Lobe, Bipindi-Grand Zambi and Mbalam-Nabeba iron ore deposits are due to come on stream. Bauxite from Minim-Martap, for which the mining agreement was signed in July 2024, will also add to the mining sector’s contribution to the national economy. In addition, control over mineral marketing channels aims to maximize revenues from natural resources and finance development projects.
Infrastructure investment: a priority
The speech highlighted the government’s efforts to develop the infrastructure needed to support the economy – roads and freeways: By 2024, 446 kilometers of roads had been paved, and 228 kilometers rehabilitated. Work is progressing on the Yaoundé-Nsimalen and Yaoundé-Douala freeways. In energy, with the commissioning of the Nachtigal and Lom Pangar dams, Cameroon has boosted its electricity capacity. The construction of 360 solar power plants in rural areas and major hydroelectric projects promises to extend energy coverage. In drinking water, progress has been made with the Yaoundé water supply project, the extension of the Japoma station in Douala, and the renovation of infrastructure in secondary towns.
Public finance reform at the heart of the strategy
Given the scarcity of financial resources, the President stressed the importance of governance and structural reforms. The emphasis is on the fight against corruption. Embezzlement of public funds and infringement of land ownership will be severely punished. The government is committed to guaranteeing transparency in order to attract more private investment and maintain the confidence of international donors. In addition, the reform of the National Investment Company (SNI) aims to make it a strategic lever for promoting productive investment.
Agriculture : an important lever
On the agricultural front, Paul Biya reaffirms that this sector continues to play a crucial role in reducing the trade deficit. He points out that the integrated agropastoral and fisheries import-substitution plan presented last year is beginning to show concrete results. In support of this assertion, he mentions the 452 tonnes of seeds and 12,800 tonnes of flour produced locally this year. With regard to cocoa, the Head of State highlighted the effects of the quality promotion policy implemented in recent years, which has enabled producers to benefit from particularly advantageous prices. He also announced the imminent launch of the Ouassa-Babouté agro-industrial technopole, near Nkoteng, which will be dedicated to the production and processing of products such as cereals, tubers, milk and milk derivatives.
Paul Biya concluded by recalling that economic emergence remains a national priority. Efforts in agribusiness, infrastructure, energy and the development of mining resources illustrate an ambitious vision to transform Cameroon into a regional economic powerhouse.
The year 2025 promises to be crucial, not only economically, but also politically, with the presidential election and the regional elections. A challenge that Cameroon is ready to take up.
Key figures to remember
- Economic growth forecast for 2025: 4.1%.
- Falling inflation: from 7.4% (2023) to 4% (2025)
- Asphalted roads in 2024: 446 km
- New industrial jobs (Bipaga plant): 2,500
- Agricultural production in 2024: 12,800 tonnes of flour and 452 tonnes of seed.
Ivory Coast: the ambition to become an economic hub
In his New Year’s message to the nation, President Alassane Ouattara boasted robust growth of 6.1% and strategic investments in infrastructure, energy and education. Ivory Coast is positioned as an economic and energy hub in West Africa.
The President underlined the solidity of the country’s macroeconomic framework. With debt levels maintained at 56% of GDP, below the community threshold of 70% in the WAEMU zone, Ivory Coast is well equipped to continue attracting international investors.
Strategic infrastructures : solid foundations for development
Infrastructure development remains a national priority. The extension and modernization of Félix Houphouët-Boigny International Airport is part of this dynamic, aimed at positioning Ivory Coast as a leading economic and tourism hub. Air Ivory Coast, the national airline, will begin long-haul flights to strategic destinations such as Paris, London and New York in 2025. This development will help boost trade and attract more foreign capital.
In the energy sector, Ivory Coast has set itself the ambitious target of achieving a 45% share of renewable energies in its energy mix by 2030, while consolidating its role as a sub-regional energy hub thanks to recent discoveries of oil, gas and gold deposits.
Towards food sovereignty through agriculture
The policy of strengthening food self-sufficiency is bearing fruit. In 2024, paddy rice production reached 2 million tonnes, compared with 846,000 tonnes in 2011. The government is continuing to invest in strengthening food security and stimulating agricultural production, particularly in the food sector.
Coffee and cocoa growers, the main players in the rural economy, are benefiting from a historic measure with the free provision of Universal Health Coverage (CMU) from 2025. In addition, the field price of cocoa has been significantly increased, reaching 2.83 USD (1,800 F CFA), a record in recent history.
Social investment: education and health at the top of the agenda
Ivory Coast ‘s economic development is accompanied by strong investment in human capital. The country will have ten public universities by 2025, compared with just three in 2011, thanks to the construction and rehabilitation of establishments in several regions.
In the healthcare sector, coverage has improved significantly. Today, 80% of the population lives less than 5 kilometers from a health center, and 16 million people are enrolled in the Universal Health Coverage program.
A favorable business and investment climate
The President reiterated his commitment to improving the business environment, notably through the fight against corruption and money laundering. Ivory Coast is striving to become a model of good governance in Africa. Strategic sectors such as digital, tourism and culture offer new growth and employment opportunities for young people. In 2025, the construction of a Cité de l’Innovation et de la Culture will bring together start-up incubators and state-of-the-art infrastructures, making the country even more attractive to investors.
The President’s message concludes on an optimistic note, with the assurance that Ivory Coast will consolidate its economic and social gains by 2025. The forthcoming presidential election will be an opportunity to reaffirm the country’s democratic maturity and its ambition to become an economic and social leader in Africa. With solid foundations, ambitious reforms and a stable macro-economic framework, Ivory Coast is giving itself the means to realize its vision : to become a prosperous and united nation, where every citizen contributes to the Republic’s influence.
key figures to remember
- Economic growth forecast for 2025: 6.1
- Debt level: 56% of GDP (below the WAEMU community threshold of 70%).
- Paddy rice production in 2024: 2 million tonnes (vs. 846,000 tonnes in 2011).
- Cocoa field price: 2.83 USD (1,800 F CFA an all-time record).
- Public universities planned for 2025: 10 (vs. 3 in 2011).
- Health coverage: 80% of the population lives within 5 kilometers of a health center.
- People enrolled in Universal Health Coverage (CMU): 16 million.
- Share of renewable energies in the energy mix by 2030: 45%.
Gabon: Economic recovery and restoration of institutions after the putsch
Gabon’s Head of State, General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, delivered a speech of hope and determination on the eve of 2025. Focusing on economic recovery and the restoration of institutions, he announced a series of ambitious reforms and major projects aimed at transforming Gabon into a land of economic, social and environmental opportunity.
In his end-of-year address, the Gabonese head of state emphasized the efforts being made to revive the national economy. The transitional government’s priorities include reducing the state’s cost of living and fighting corruption. “Every Gabonese must have his or her fair share of the national wealth“, he asserted, promising a more equitable redistribution of resources.
The State’s takeover of strategic companies such as Société nationale des bois du Gabon (SNBG) marks a turning point in the management of state-owned enterprises. Following in the footsteps of Assala, Fly Gabon and Cecagadis, this nationalization reflects a clear determination to strengthen economic sovereignty while respecting laws and international commitments.
Structuring projects to stimulate growth
The year 2025 will bring three major infrastructure projects into the spotlight. Firstly, the Mayumba deepwater port : this strategic project aims to boost Gabon’s trade and make it a regional logistics hub. Secondly, the Belinga-Bouée-Mayumba railroad line : This will facilitate the transport of natural resources, while opening up the regions concerned. And finally, the Booué hydroelectric dam : a key investment to meet the country’s growing energy needs and promote industrial development.
These projects, which are expected to create 163,000 jobs, reflect a clear commitment to stimulating youth employment and boosting priority sectors such as agriculture, transport, tourism, digital technology and industry.
A favorable environment for foreign investment
The Head of State made a solemn appeal to international investors, highlighting political stability, abundant natural resources and a strengthened regulatory framework. “Gabon is more than ever a land of opportunity“, he declared, emphasizing reforms aimed at guaranteeing business transparency and legal certainty.
Gabon also aims to position itself as a leader in the green economy. Building on its pioneering role in forest preservation, the country plans to introduce a carbon tax on airlines and shipping companies crossing its territory. This unprecedented measure will help finance ecological initiatives while consolidating Gabon’s carbon neutrality by 2050.
In conclusion, the Head of State called on the Gabonese people to unite in building a country of justice, progress and fraternity. With large-scale projects, an attractive economic environment and bold reforms, Gabon is embarking on a promising path.
Key figures and major projects to remember
- Jobs forecast for structuring projects in 2025 : 163,000
- Mayumba deepwater port.
- Belinga-Bouée-Mayumba railroad line.
- Booué hydroelectric dam.
- Carbon target: Carbon neutral by 2050.
- New ecological measure: Carbon tax introduced for airlines and shipping companies crossing Gabonese territory.
