The long-awaited rehabilitation of the Kumba-Ekondo-Titi road has entered a critical phase, with the tarring of the 60-kilometer stretch now in progress.
Construction activities, spearheaded by the Rapid Intervention Battalion (BIR), have resumed.
This comes after some delays caused by insecurity and logistical challenges, according to the government.
The project, a lifeline for the Ndian Division, is pivotal for connecting the region to the rest of the South West Region by road.
Speaking from the site, the Senior Divisional Officer for Meme, Chamberlain Ntuo’o Ndong, confirmed the importance of this milestone.
“The tarring phase signifies not only progress in construction but also the government’s unwavering commitment to delivering critical infrastructure to the people of the Southwest Region,” he stated.
What this Road Means to Ndian Division
For decades, the Kumba-Ekondo Titi road has been the only corridor linking Ndian Division to the rest of the Southwest Region by land. However, its deplorable state forced commuters to rely solely on the Idenau sea route, significantly hampering economic activities and access to essential services.
Local residents express optimism about the ongoing work, with one commuter.
“This road will change everything for us. We have suffered for too long. Once completed, it will open up opportunities and make life much easier,” Esther Oku, a resident of Ndian stated.
Conflict and Sabotage Delayed Construction
The road project has faced significant challenges, primarily due to the ongoing armed conflict in the Northwest and Southwest Regions. Security concerns led the government to award the contract to the military engineering corps, with execution entrusted to the BIR.
In 2018, construction suffered a major setback when gunmen abducted Tunisian workers, whom the initial contractor, Soroubat, contracted.
Authorities reportedly paid substantial ransom was to secure their release, further delaying progress.
A senior BIR official addressed these challenges, stating, “Despite the risks, we are determined to deliver this road.”This is not just a construction project; it’s a symbol of resilience and hope for the people of this region.”
Road’s Realisation Imminent
The Kumba-Ekondo Titi road holds significant importance. Its completion will significantly boost trade, agriculture, and mobility in Ndian and surrounding areas. The road will unlock the economic potential of the division, which is home to rich oil fields, timber, and fertile agricultural land.
The government has prioritized the project under the Triennial Emergency Plan (Planut), recognizing its strategic importance.
“This road is essential for integrating Ndian into the regional economy and ensuring that no part of the Southwest is left behind,” Public Works Minister, Nganou Njumessi said.
Currently, construction teams are focusing on the wearing course in Mbonge, with ongoing efforts to address critical sections and complete hydraulic and geotechnical works. While challenges such as the distance to the pozzolan quarry in Ekona remain, the teams are making steady progress.
As the tarring phase advances, hopes are high that the road will soon transform the socio-economic landscape of the region, bringing long-overdue relief to commuters and fostering development in one of Cameroon’s most underserved areas.
