5th tripartite forum: Cameroon, Chad and central african republic strengthen regional transit cooperation
The Ministry of Transport, Civil Aviation and National Meteorology is joining forces with port authorities to host the 5th edition of the tripartite forum on trade facilitation for Central African Republic (CAR), Chad and Cameroon. This year’s event, taking place from May 11 to 13, 2026 in N’Djamena, marks a significant step toward enhancing regional economic integration and streamlining transit through Cameroonian ports.
Presided over by Chad’s Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Fatima Goukouni Weddeye, the opening ceremony set the tone for three days of strategic dialogue. The forum brings together government officials, private sector representatives and logistics experts to address critical challenges in cross-border trade.
a shared commitment to economic solidarity
In his address, Cameroon’s Minister of Transport, Jean Ernest Masséna Ngallé Bibéhè, praised the strong collaboration among the three nations. He highlighted how Cameroonian port infrastructure—particularly in Douala and Kribi—serves as a vital lifeline for landlocked Chad and CAR, underscoring the deep historical and geographical ties that bind these countries together.
Minister Bibéhè emphasized the forum’s role in fostering mutual support: « The momentum we are building is not just promising—it is essential for our shared future. » He also addressed a humanitarian case involving a Cameroonian driver detained in Chad, calling for a swift resolution grounded in solidarity.
strategic priorities for landlocked nations
Minister Fatima Goukouni Weddeye opened the discussions by stressing the forum’s strategic importance for Chad and CAR, both of which rely heavily on Cameroonian ports for trade. She noted that the efficiency of transit corridors directly impacts market supply, logistics costs and overall economic competitiveness in the region.
« For Chad and CAR, the performance of ports like Douala and Kribi is not just a logistical issue—it is a matter of economic survival. Reducing delays and costs in transit is key to unlocking our full potential, » she stated.
collaborative solutions for smoother trade
Over the three-day event, participants from public and private sectors will exchange best practices and propose actionable solutions to:
- Improve transit fluidity between the three countries
- Cut down on unnecessary logistics expenses
- Strengthen regional economic integration
The forum reflects a growing recognition that coordinated efforts are essential to overcoming the trade barriers faced by landlocked nations in Central Africa.
