Cameroon’s Minister of Finance Louis Paul Motaze calls for the population to actively participate in the reconstruction of the Northwest and Southwest Regions. On Wednesday, 15th January 2025, he made the call in Buea as he opened operations for the 2025 fiscal year in Cameroon.
The Minister detailed the government’s actions to restore infrastructure, rebuild social cohesion, and revive local economies in areas devastated by years of conflict.
“We rebuild not just structures but also trust and hope. The Minister told an audience of administrative authorities, local leaders, and economic operators, “This mission requires the collective efforts of every citizen.”
Minister Motaze announced that the Presidential Reconstruction Programme will receive 36.4 billion CFA francs for 2025, up from 34 billion CFA francs in 2024. The programme has achieved significant progress since its start. It has rehabilitated 79 schools, 37 health facilities, and 37 water points and restored four major bridges to enhance connectivity within the regions. The Minister highlighted that these efforts seek to rebuild physical structures and mend the social fabric torn apart by years of violence. He emphasised that more than 2,461 farmers received essential tools and equipment, 23 markets were constructed, and numerous socio-cultural events were organised to strengthen community ties.
Post-Conflict Reconstruction
The reconstruction programme directly addresses the devastating effects of the conflict, leaving communities displaced and economies weakened. Minister Motaze emphasised that the government has laid the groundwork, but sustainable progress relies on grassroots involvement. He urged citizens to take an active role in the rebuilding process by engaging in local governance, collaborating with government initiatives, or leveraging opportunities created by new fiscal measures.
“This reconstruction serves not only the government but also the people.” “Your voices, your skills, and your commitment are essential,” he said.
The Finance Minister detailed the fiscal measures that support this reconstruction. The 2025 Finance Law allocates a total budget of 7,317.7 billion CFA francs, focusing on socio-economic growth and decentralisation. The measures include removing VAT on local flours and basic necessities, reducing tariffs on industrial petrol and small-business dividends, and providing incentives for green economy initiatives like electric vehicles and reforestation. These reforms aim to empower local communities, improve household purchasing power, and create a sustainable path to development.
Progress So Far
Minister Motaze highlighted the progress in implementing public investment projects in the region. He reported a 91.4% completion rate for projects in 2023, attributing it to the professionalism and patriotism of stakeholders. Furthermore, he acknowledged persistent challenges, including delays in tender procedures and financial constraints faced by contractors. He urged all stakeholders to prioritise efficiency and accountability. “We must work together as a united nation to achieve our goals. “This mission transcends politics and individual interests; it focuses on building a future for our children,” he said.
The Minister outlined specific priorities for the Northwest and Southwest Regions in 2025. Rehabilitation efforts focus on more schools, health facilities, and markets. The expansion of road networks includes the Bekoko-Limbe-Idenau and Buea-Memos-Sasse-Wotutu-Limbe roads. The plans include distributing housing kits to displaced families and organising socio-cultural events to restore trust and understanding within communities.
“These initiatives go beyond projects; they promise a better tomorrow,” he said.
The finance minister emphasised that collective responsibility plays a crucial role in achieving the nation’s development goals. He urged economic operators to back the government’s tax policies and to execute public works promptly and professionally.
