Cameroon’s Ailing Energy Sector to Receive Support

Cameroon’s energy sector, and particularly hydropower, is in a crisis. Although government authorities are quick in their conclusion that capacity meets demand, this is far from the truth. The population observes frequent power outages especially during the dry season when water pressure usually drops at the country’s hydro dams. This regrettable situation also leads to water shortages in places were water pressure is determine by electric generators and not gravity.

Not even the thermal plant that was installed recently by the country’s electricity supply company, AES SONEL, could solve the problem of power failure in the country. Consequently, there is wide fear among Cameroonians, especially those living in remote areas, that the situation might worsen in the future due to growing demand.
The World Bank country director told the press after her visit that the institution was fully committed to assisting Cameroon in its global energy scheme in order to stratify the ever-growing demand. As to what she discussed with the prime minister, in concrete terms, she said, “We discussed the situation of power in Cameroon. We anticipate a greater demand in the coming years … We have been asked to provide support to increase the production capacity as well as a holistic view in the development of the sector.” On this score, the World Bank country director, further said, “The world bank will beef up the development plan and also establish more structural and institutional frameworks to support the sector.” These not withstanding, the World Bank will also help Cameroon promote private sector development which is presently nonexistent, and also support the government initiative to ensure the entire country has access to adequate power supply.

Ohmy News