Recent studies continue to affirm a powerful truth: holistic development is most effectively driven by inter-council collaboration, also known as decentralized cooperation. This model of partnership-linking local governments across borders-has emerged as a key pillar in advancing sustainable growth and improving service delivery at the grassroots level.
It is within this framework that I am honored to attend the 3rd edition of the International Economic Days of Councils, currently taking place in Yaoundé. The three-day event, organized by the United Councils and Cities of Cameroon (UCCC), serves as a vibrant platform for Cameroonian councils to establish strategic ties with their counterparts from around the world, as well as with international business leaders.
The primary objective of the conference is to foster robust cooperation between local governments and encourage investment opportunities tailored to local realities. In Cameroon, councils hold immense potential for economic development in areas such as:
Provision of pipe-borne water, agroculture, fishing, rural electrification, renewable energy solutions, transport, waste management and garbage disposal, urban and city planning, tourism development, ICTs and access to affordable building materials.
This edition of the event has attracted participants from a diverse array of countries, including the Kingdom of Morocco, France, Belgium, Italy, Germany, and Türkiye, among others. Their presence not only underscores the global interest in Cameroon’s local development initiatives but also opens new pathways for technical exchange, innovation, and mutually beneficial partnerships.
WRITTEN BY: Manyanye Paul Ikome
