The Ebolowa–Akom II–Kribi road construction project is taking a significant step forward with the allocation of over 130 billion FCFA. The Minister of Public Works, Emmanuel Nganou Djoumessi, convened stakeholders on March 4, 2026, in person and via video conference, to examine potential obstacles before the financing agreement is signed, which is expected between March and April 2026.
According to a report from the Ministry of Public Works, discussions focused on finalizing expropriation and compensation procedures for local residents, bringing the financing agreement into effect, clearing rights-of-way, and anticipating constraints related to maintaining traffic flow during construction. Particular emphasis was placed on the need to ensure continuous traffic flow, identifying critical sections requiring special attention.
Minister Nganou Djoumessi stressed the streamlining of expenses related to construction site facilities, in order to maximize resources allocated to field work. He also called for speed from all actors involved. At the end of the meeting, an updated schedule of priority actions was established.
This 179.2 km road project, awarded to the Italian company ICM Construction, aims to connect Ebolowa to Kribi, via Akom II. It is part of the promise made by the Head of State to the people of the South region during the Ebolowa Agropastoral Show in 2011. The road is expected to facilitate the transport of forestry resources from Congo to the port of Kribi.
The project has experienced delays due to environmental requirements, including taking into account the presence of gorillas in the area. Standard Chartered Bank had made financing conditional on compliance with these requirements. The project also includes an action plan for the resettlement of affected populations, as well as measures to protect the biodiversity of the tropical forest crossed.
The construction of the Ebolowa–Akom II–Kribi road is expected to last 36 months. This project is considered a key element in opening up the region's production areas and improving access to the deep-water port of Kribi. The completion of this infrastructure is expected to strengthen the economic and social development of the South region and facilitate trade with neighboring countries.
