The Minister of State, Secretary General at the Presidency of the Republic, Ferdinand Ngoh Ngoh, conducted an on-site assessment of the ongoing road construction and rehabilitation project along the Nkolbisson-Monatele corridor in the Lekie Division on March 9, following instructions from President Paul Biya.
The Nkolbisson-Monatele corridor spans approximately 81.5 kilometers, passing through key localities such as Okola, Evodoula, and Monatele, which serves as the administrative center of the Lekie Division. The region is recognized as a major agricultural hub that supplies food to Yaoundé and other surrounding areas. Historically, the poor condition of these roads has hindered efficient transportation, causing delays and increasing costs for farmers seeking to transport their produce to markets in the areas. The rehabilitation project aims to resolve these challenges by providing durable and accessible road infrastructure, facilitating commerce, and improving the overall quality of life for residents.
The rehabilitation work includes several key segments: the Nkolbisson Interchange to Zamengoué Interchange, which covers 9.05 kilometers and improves connectivity from the outskirts of Yaoundé; the stretch from Zamengoué to Ekekam and Evodoula, covering 43.95 kilometers, which links multiple communities and ensures smoother transit for goods and people; and the final segment from Ekekam to Monatele, covering 28.5 kilometers, which strengthens administrative and economic activities in the region. The construction contract, valued at approximately CFA 31.09 billion, was awarded to the Egyptian firm Arab Contractors.
The agreement, approved by the Presidency in June 2022, outlines a 24-month completion timeline. Arab Contractors is tasked with clearing the road, setting up alternative routes, relocating utilities, expanding certain sections to dual carriageways, and constructing bridges over the Ngobo River. As of early 2023, the project had reached 5.5% completion, progressing in accordance with the planned timeline. Ongoing work includes site clearing, earthworks, and geotechnical studies to ensure the road’s durability. Arab Contractors has set up operational bases in Okola and is actively working on preparing the terrain for the major phases of the project. During his visit, Minister Ngoh Ngoh, accompanied by Minister of Public Works Emmanuel Nganou Djoumessi and Central Region Governor Naseri Paul Bea, met with local residents who warmly welcomed the delegation.
The community expressed gratitude for the initiative and emphasized the expected economic benefits that the improved infrastructure will bring. Farmers and traders in the area anticipate a reduction in transportation costs and increased access to markets, which will ultimately improve their economic conditions. While the project is progressing steadily, it is not without challenges. Arab Contractors has previously faced scrutiny for delays and construction quality concerns in Cameroon, including issues on the Bikoula-Djoum road in the South Region and prolonged timelines on the Yaoundé-Nsimalen highway.
To ensure that the Nkolbisson-Monatele project remains on track, the Ministry of Public Works, in collaboration with LABOGENIE, is conducting rigorous oversight. Regular site inspections and technical evaluations are being implemented to maintain quality standards and ensure timely delivery. Minister Ngoh Ngoh’s recent visit reinforced the government’s high-level attention to the project and its commitment to infrastructural modernization. The successful completion of the Nkolbisson-Monatele road rehabilitation will have significant economic and social benefits. Improved road networks will attract investments, support local businesses, and strengthen regional markets.
The agricultural sector, a key economic driver in the Lekie Division, will benefit from better access to urban centers, reducing post-harvest losses and increasing profitability for farmers. Additionally, the improved infrastructure will enhance access to essential services such as healthcare and education, contributing to overall human development in the region.
