Abstract

The purpose of this report is to help policymakers improve economic development and job creation in Cameroon’s cities. The report is part of the World Bank’s Technical Assistance project on Enhancing Economic Performance of African Cities, supporting clients in the Ministry of Economy, Planning and Regional Development (MINEPAT), Ministry of Urban Development (MINDHU) and the Urban Metropolitan Councils (Communauté Urbaines), particularly of Douala, Kribi and Bamenda, in the areas of: a) economic analyses and b) institutional support to strengthen their ability to plan and implement relevant reforms. This study utilized various research methodologies including (1) desk based analysis of quantitative data; (2) focus group discussions with over 120 local firms and stakeholders in Douala, Bamenda, Kribi; and (3) institutional analysis of Cameroon’s decentralization framework to identify appropriate institutional mechanisms for promoting local economic development. The report highlights the importance of investing in Cameroon’s cities and makes key recommendations to national and local government for the key investments and reforms needed to improve economic competitiveness and job creation.