Cameroon has arrived in force in Abidjan for the Africa CEO Forum 2025, with a high-level delegation of public officials and business leaders, symbolizing its desire to play a key role in the new African economic landscape. Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute is leading the delegation, reflecting the strategic importance of this continental event. Among the prominent figures are Abakal Mahamat (BGFIBank Cameroon), Patrice Melom (Autonomous Port of Kribi), and Patrice Yantho (JMJ Participation), all of whom illustrate the dynamism of Cameroon’s economic fabric.
Under the theme “Can a Public-Private New Deal Reshuffle the Cards in Favor of the Continent?”, the forum explores concrete solutions to reinvent cooperation between states and businesses. Three areas are highlighted: governance, public policy, and the acceleration of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). For Cameroonian authorities, this approach is aligned with national priorities, including promoting industrialization and mobilizing innovative financing.
Faced with an international environment marked by rising protectionism, shrinking development aid, and rising debt costs, African leaders must adapt their strategies. The forum thus provides a platform for discussion on crucial topics such as artificial intelligence for governance, the energy transition, and the resilience of supply chains.
For Amir Ben Yahmed, President of the ACF, the continent’s economic salvation depends on a strengthened and agile private sector. “There is no alternative: Africa must remove the structural obstacles to its economic development,” he insisted. The presence of young entrepreneurs and innovative leaders like Yelena Fotso (Anfel Consulting) and Youssoufa Bouba (Afriland First Bank) embodies this new generation ready to take on the challenge.
The swift and effective implementation of the AfCFTA is considered essential to boost intra-African trade. Cameroon, with its geostrategic position and industrial potential, intends to leverage this continental momentum to strengthen its economic integration and increase its South-South partnerships.
