5th tripartite forum bolsters trade flow between Cameroon Tchad and rca
The Ministry of Transport, Civil Aviation, and National Meteorology, in collaboration with port stakeholders, is hosting the 5th edition of the tripartite forum between the Central African Republic (RCA), Chad, and Cameroon. The event focuses on streamlining goods transit through Cameroonian ports. The opening ceremony, held in N’Djamena on Monday, May 11, 2026, was led by the Chadian Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Fatima Goukouni Weddeye.
The forum, running from May 11 to 13, 2026, serves as a pivotal platform for fostering economic cooperation among the three nations. During the event, Cameroon’s Minister of Transport, Jean Ernest Masséna Ngallé Bibéhè, praised the commitment of the highest authorities in Chad, the RCA, and Cameroon. He emphasized the critical role of Cameroonian port infrastructure in supporting trade for landlocked neighbors like the RCA and Chad, highlighting the deep-rooted historical and geographical solidarity among these countries.
Minister Bibéhè remarked, « The momentum generated by our three countries is promising and will only grow stronger, » while also addressing the case of a Cameroonian driver detained in Chad, urging a fraternal resolution. The forum underscores the shared challenges and opportunities for landlocked nations relying on coastal ports for trade.
Why this forum matters for landlocked nations
In her opening address, Minister Fatima Goukouni Weddeye stressed the forum’s strategic significance for countries without direct sea access. She noted, « For Chad and the RCA, landlocked nations dependent on Cameroonian ports, the efficiency of the Douala and Kribi corridors directly impacts market supply, logistics costs, and economic competitiveness. »
Key objectives and expected outcomes
Over three days, delegates from public and private sectors will engage in discussions to:
- Share best practices and innovative solutions for smoother transit operations
- Identify strategies to cut logistical expenses and reduce delays
- Strengthen regional economic integration through collaborative frameworks
By addressing bottlenecks and fostering dialogue, the forum aims to enhance trade connectivity, benefiting businesses and consumers across the three nations. As regional trade barriers ease, the potential for economic growth and shared prosperity becomes ever more attainable.
