The execution rate of projects in the South-West region is 30% eight months after the start of the year

By Daniel D.

As of August 8, 2024, the execution rate of public investment budget (PIB) projects in the South-West region of Cameroon stands at a worrying level of 30%, marking a decrease of 2% compared to the previous year.

This slowdown, highlighted during the first half-year meeting of the regional participatory monitoring committee for the physical and financial execution of these projects, has raised concerns about the region's development trajectory.

The meeting, which was held in Buea, brought together key stakeholders including regional officials, municipal representatives and members of the Ministry of Public Procurement.

The discussions focused on the challenges that hinder the effective execution of the region's public investment budget, which amounts to more than 22 billion FCFA for 2024.

Delays in awarding contracts and armed conflicts among main challenges

One of the main issues identified at the meeting was the problematic nature of contract awarding by municipalities.

Officials noted that some municipalities awarded contracts to contractors who did not meet tax abatement requirements, leading to significant delays in project execution.

This resulted in several projects remaining unfinished or, in some cases, not even starting.

Furthermore, the ongoing Anglophone armed conflict continues to pose a significant obstacle to the successful implementation of public investment projects in some divisions.

The conflict has created an unstable environment, particularly in areas such as Meme, Ndian and Manyu, where security concerns have delayed the progress of many initiatives.

Statistical overview of project execution

The South West Region has a total of 517 public investment projects to be executed in 2024, with a combined value of more than 17.9 billion FCFA.

These projects span multiple divisions, including:

• Fako Department: 70 projects
• Kupe Muanenguba Division: 29 projects
• Lebialem Department: 42 projects
• Manyu Division: 48 projects
• Meme Division: 29 projects
• Ndian Department: 72 projects

Despite the large number of projects, the region's overall execution rate remains at 30%, a worrying figure given that the year is already more than half over.

For example, in Buea, the city council is yet to start key projects such as the construction of an amusement park in Buea town and the rehabilitation of the road linking Memoz to Small Soppo Presbyterian Church.

Furthermore, some councils like Kumba Municipal Council and Tombel Municipal Council are yet to launch any of the projects assigned to them, reflecting a zero percent implementation rate.

In contrast, the commune of Limbe I managed to achieve an impressive execution rate of 82%, standing out as a model of efficiency in the region.

Calls for responsibility and action

Honorable Malomba Esembe, Chairman of the Regional Participatory Monitoring Committee for the Implementation of the Project, expressed deep concern over the current situation.

He stressed that some failures in the award of contracts and execution of projects could constitute criminal offences under Cameroonian law.

“We leave here with the firm resolve to engage the vote holders to do the needful,” Hon. Esembe said.

He called on construction authorities and municipal leaders to review their policies and improve their implementation strategies.

©Mimi Mefo Info

Related