President Paul Biya’s New Year address on 31 December 2024 outlined an ambitious vision for Cameroon in 2025, centred on security, economic growth, improved living standards, and governance. The speech served as both a reflection on past achievements and a roadmap for the future, leaving many Cameroonians hopeful yet cautious about the realisation of these promises.
The President reaffirmed his commitment to national unity and security, declaring that Cameroon would remain "one and indivisible." Acknowledging the persistent challenges posed by Boko Haram and separatist movements, he praised the progress made by the defence forces in tackling these threats. He commended the disarmament, demobilisation, and reintegration efforts for former fighters, calling on remaining armed groups to embrace peace while warning of the consequences of continued violence. His promise to enhance security in both urban and rural areas offered hope to those affected by crime, especially in the troubled North-West and South-West regions.
On the economic front, President Biya expressed pride in the nation’s resilience amidst global challenges. He highlighted a 3.8% economic growth rate in 2024, with projections of 4.1% for 2025. Inflation had reportedly dropped from 7.4% in 2023 to 5% in 2024, and further reductions were anticipated. Prominent economic initiatives included the integrated agro-pastoral and fisheries import-substitution plan, which has increased production of key agricultural products. Industrialisation efforts were also emphasised, with new economic zones in Kribi, Edea, and Bertoua poised to boost cocoa, coffee, rubber, and wood processing. The inauguration of Central Africa’s largest tile production plant and a sixth cement plant underscored the government’s industrial ambitions. Preparations to commence mining operations for iron, bauxite, and other minerals were also highlighted as part of efforts to diversify the economy and create jobs.
The President pledged significant improvements in living standards through enhanced access to electricity, water, healthcare, and education. He cited the completion of the Nachtigal dam and ongoing solar energy projects as solutions to load shedding and rural electrification challenges. Water supply projects in Yaoundé, Douala, and secondary towns were reported to be progressing, with plans to connect more households and upgrade existing facilities. In healthcare, the recruitment of nearly 10,000 workers over the next five years was announced, aimed at improving service delivery and reducing unemployment among young graduates. In the education sector, he reassured teachers of continued dialogue to address their concerns while emphasising measures to tackle unemployment.
Road infrastructure featured prominently in the President’s address. Acknowledging public frustration over deteriorating roads, he promised increased investment and a reorganisation of the Road Fund. Several road projects were mentioned, including the Bekoko-Limbe-Idenau, Ngaoundere-Garoua, and Mora-Kousseri roads, alongside progress on the motorways connecting Yaoundé and Douala. These assurances are likely to be met with scepticism unless visible progress is swiftly made.
As the country prepares for presidential and regional elections in 2025, President Biya called for peaceful and mature conduct during the electoral process. He addressed the challenges of voter registration caused by identity card delays, pledging measures to expedite the resolution of these issues. On governance, he reiterated his commitment to fighting corruption and improving fiscal management, particularly in the mining sector. His promise of appropriate sanctions for offenders signalled a firmer stance on transparency and accountability.
The President also recognised the challenges posed by climate change, particularly the recent floods in the Far-North Region. He instructed the government to implement flood protection infrastructure and disaster prevention measures to mitigate the impacts of future natural disasters.
The coming year represents a critical test of the government’s ability to fulfil these promises. While the President’s assurances have instilled some hope, the expectations of Cameroonians are clear: they demand action, not just rhetoric. The success of these plans will be measured by tangible progress in addressing the everyday challenges faced by citizens.
President Biya’s New Year speech provided an ambitious blueprint for Cameroon’s development. However, as the country steps into 2025, the government must demonstrate its capacity to translate promises into meaningful outcomes. For Cameroonians, the future holds cautious optimism, underscored by a strong desire for results.
By Bakah Derick
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