The Ministry of Transport, Civil Aviation, and National Meteorology, in collaboration with key port stakeholders, has launched the fifth edition of the tripartite forum focused on enhancing trade facilitation for the Central African Republic (RCA), Chad, and Cameroon. The event’s opening ceremony took place on Monday, May 11, 2026, in N’Djamena, chaired by the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Fatima Goukouni Weddeye.
a strategic platform for regional economic cooperation
Running from May 11 to 13, 2026, this forum serves as a pivotal platform for dialogue, aiming to deepen economic ties between the three nations. During the ceremony, Cameroon’s Minister of Transport, Jean Ernest Masséna Ngallé Bibéhè, highlighted the unwavering commitment of the highest authorities in each country.
He emphasized that Cameroon’s port infrastructure is not only vital for its own economy but also plays a critical role in supporting the trade and logistics needs of Chad and the Central African Republic. The minister underscored the deep-rooted geographical and historical solidarity that unites these nations, fostering a spirit of mutual support in overcoming shared challenges.
key issues and collaborative solutions
Minister Bibéhè also addressed a pressing matter involving a Cameroonian truck driver detained in Chad, calling for a swift resolution grounded in regional camaraderie. This gesture reflects the forum’s broader mission: to tackle logistical bottlenecks and strengthen supply chain efficiency across borders.
Fatima Goukouni Weddeye, in her opening remarks, stressed the strategic importance of the forum for landlocked nations like Chad and the RCA. She noted that the performance of Douala and Kribi ports directly influences market supply, logistics costs, and economic competitiveness for these countries.
driving regional integration through dialogue
Over three days, participants from public and private sectors will engage in discussions to identify actionable solutions. The goal is to streamline transit processes, cut down on logistical expenses, and bolster economic integration across the region. By fostering collaboration, the forum aims to unlock new opportunities for growth and development, ensuring that trade flows smoothly between these interconnected nations.
