Cameroon's President Paul Biya has authorized, through a decree on May 4, 2026, the contracting of two loans from Deutsche Bank of Spain, totaling FCFA 7 billion. These funds are earmarked for financing the acquisition of fishing vessels and the modernization of the Youpwe landing dock, located in Douala, the country's economic capital.
The financing consists of a buyer credit of FCFA 6.230 billion and a commercial credit of FCFA 787.796 million. The buyer credit will cover 85% of the cost of acquiring equipment from suppliers, while the commercial credit offers a payment term of 30 to 90 days.
The Youpwe landing dock, essential for supplying Douala with fish products, was initially financed by a donation from Japan amounting to FCFA 6.6 billion. This infrastructure aims to modernize the conservation and marketing of fish products for approximately 262 fish vendors. Located on the banks of the Doctor's creek, it is a starting point for smoked fish to other markets in Cameroon.
Following disagreements with the Ministry of Livestock, Fisheries and Animal Industries (Minepia), the management of the landing dock was entrusted to the Douala City Council in April 2024, following an inter-ministerial meeting chaired by the Prime Minister, Joseph Dion Nguté.
The announcement of this loan comes as the Cameroonian government seeks to strengthen its fisheries sector and improve existing infrastructure. The acquisition of new vessels and the modernization of the Youpwe landing dock are expected to boost the local economy and improve the working conditions of stakeholders in the sector. The artisanal fishing port of Youpwe is the main supply center for the city of Douala and its region.
In December 2024, Prime Minister Joseph John Ngute inaugurated the ultra-modern Youpwe landing quay and fish market. The project financed by Japan aims to make Cameroon self-sufficient in fish production and strengthen the local economy.
This new financing from Deutsche Bank of Spain will enable the acquisition of equipment and improvement of the facilities of this vital fishing center in Douala.
