Chad and Cameroon on Monday signed a strategic agreement for the construction of a cross-border railway line. The signing ceremony took place in Abu Dhabi, attended by high-level representatives, marking a major step toward regional integration in Central Africa.
A Step Forward for Chad’s Connectivity
The memorandum of understanding aims to establish a direct railroad link between landlocked Chad and the port of Douala in neighbouring Cameroon. This is seen as a development that could further transform economic exchanges between the two countries.
“Chad needs to connect with the world in order to grow. This railway is our opening to the future,” said Guibolo Fanga Mathieu, Chad’s Minister of Commerce, who represented the Minister of Transport at the event.
He was joined by key figures from Chad’s transport sector, including Hissein Sidi Youssoufmi, Secretary General of the Ministry of Transport; Hamid Djoumino, Director General of COC-Tchad; and Ismaïl Mahamat Ahmat, Deputy Director General of ONCF.
Supported by International Partners
The agreement was signed with international technical and financial partners. However, specific companies and financial details have not yet been disclosed. The project is part of a broader effort to strengthen logistics corridors and support regional economic growth.
“We now have a solid foundation to move forward. This partnership is a strong signal that African solutions can come from cooperation between our states and our allies,” said Hissein Sidi Youssoufmi.
Cameroon’s Push for Regional Integration
Meanwhile, for Cameroon, the initiative supports ongoing infrastructure modernisation efforts and reflects a desire to boost South-South cooperation.
“This project is a catalyst for our economies. It will facilitate the movement of goods and also of people,” said a representative from Cameroon’s Ministry of Transport who was present at the signing.
Political Will on Display
The agreement brings together the political and economic interests of the two countries. However, they still need to finalise the technical details and construction timelines.
The ceremony in Abu Dhabi also highlights the United Arab Emirates’ growing interest in supporting infrastructure development across Africa. “It’s not just a signature; it’s a promise — a promise to move forward together, concretely,” said Guibolo Fanga Mathieu.
New Prospects for Central Africa
By linking the economies of Chad and Cameroon, the future railway could further become a key driver of regional integration in Central Africa. Such projects represent a significant milestone in a region characterised by limited connectivity.
“This is a new chapter for our countries. We want this railway to carry the hopes of our people,” concluded Ismaïl Mahamat Ahmat.
