Cameroon seeks to improve digital and energy reliability through infrastructure sharing

Cameroon is addressing the critical intersection of energy stability and digital connectivity. In Douala, the national telecommunications operator Camtel and the electricity provider have entered a new phase of cooperation aimed at sharing infrastructure to reduce duplication and improve service reliability.

Reliable electricity is essential for telecommunications, as power outages and fuel shortages for backup generators frequently degrade mobile and data services. This instability impacts both individual users and business productivity.

Simultaneously, the Ministry of Water and Energy (MINEE) is developing a national electricity tariff policy. This reform seeks to link pricing to service reliability, ensuring that users receive better service in exchange for potential price adjustments. While the 420 MW Nachtigal hydroelectric plant has increased production capacity, a World Bank report noted that grid reinforcement delays continue to limit its optimal use, particularly for industrial sectors in Douala.