Minister Ketcha Courtes has in a bid to drive rapid and sustainable urban development, issued a rallying call for her collaborators and partners to embrace a spirit of undistracted productivity, kick-starting a new era of strength in the housing and urban development sector.
Speaking during the annual conference of the central and decentralised services of the ministry, which took place recently in Yaoundé, held under the theme: “2025 perspectives and the urban sub-sector’s contribution to improving living conditions”. Served as a platform to showcase the proven impact of urban road and sanitation projects on the daily lives of Cameroonians, as well as to review the ministry’s implementation of on-going and planned projects. A key focus was the review of participative management, implemented in 2023, as a critical tool for implementing public policies on urban issues. Additionally, the conference examined the 2024 decentralization drive as an optimal strategy for executing urban projects effectively.
In Minister Ketcha Courtes opening sentence, she highlighted the significance of this year’s meeting, particularly in line with upcoming elections, including the presidential election in October. She stressed the need for outstanding results and an effective communication plan to highlight the ministry’s achievements and build public confidence. The Minister emphasized that the urban sub-sector is a vital component of the infrastructure sector and serves as a locomotive for the country’s overall growth. She highlighted the importance of infrastructure as the driving force behind the country’s economic development, citing that Gross Domestic Product, GDP, is concentrated in urban areas, where the majority of wealth is generated. To support productivity, she added, a quality road infrastructure is essential. Minister Ketcha Courtes reiterated that a course has been set by the President of the Republic, and the ministry’s role is to significantly improve urban mobility in the main cities of Cameroon.
The 2025 State Budget allocates a total of 1,863 billion FCFA for investment, with over 1,153 billion FCFA specifically allocated for the infrastructure sector. According to the Minister, visible, immediate, and tangible results for the population fall within the framework of the seven-year period of great opportunities, which will easily enable the population to have confidence and allow the peaceful pursuit of the Head of State’s great achievements. By increasing productivity and effectively implementing urban development projects, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development aims to contribute to a more prosperous and sustainable future for Cameroon.
