There have been headlines about a tussle between the government of Cameroon and the World Bank (see Blue News here). Now the Cameroonian newspaper l’Economie adds a new twist:
Camwater plans to increase the price of a cubic meter of water after the 2025 presidential election. This was the main message of a press release issued by the top management of the company that runs the public service for the production, transport and distribution of drinking water in urban and peri-urban areas in Cameroon.
In the middle of an election year, the Cameroonian government fears a possible increase in the price of a cubic metre of water per household. In a press release dated 14 January 2025, Camwater, manager of the assets and rights allocated to the public drinking water service in urban and peri-urban areas, announced that the increase in tariffs would not take place until 2027. In other words, 14 months after the presidential elections scheduled for October this year.
According to the media, the World Bank, which is supporting this public company in its structural reforms, in particular through the Programme for Results (PforR) and the Programme for Safeguarding Water Resources and Improving Access to Drinking Water and Sanitation in Cameroon (Sewash), has asked the Cameroonian government to “immediately” adjust the price of a cubic metre of tap water. But the government, which fears social protests, has refused, citing its strategic plan. Blaise Moussa, director general of Camwater, said:
“In the event of a medium-term increase in tariffs, as provided for in Camwater’s strategic plan from 2027, it will be carried out under the auspices of the government, in strict compliance with the legal procedures in force, and will be preceded by joint consultations with all the stakeholders concerned.”
In a tense context, marked by a sharp rise in the cost of basic necessities since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, with a record inflation rate of 7% in 2024 after 7.4% in 2023, driven by the rise in fuel prices at the pump, the government does not want to add another layer. At least not before the upcoming elections.
According to experts, a possible increase in prices could be perceived by citizens as the last straw, which could lead to a popular uprising. Given this delicate economic situation, Yaoundé (the capital of Cameroon) is taking a cautious approach.
A water supply system to be rebuilt…
Cameroon’s water supply system is facing major challenges that require substantial investment and modernisation of the distribution infrastructure. Population growth and rapid urbanisation are increasing pressure on water resources, making the development of a sustainable and accessible water system crucial. The need to rehabilitate existing networks and extend distribution services to rural and peri-urban areas is more evident than ever.
Pricing policy
According to a source at Camwater, the price of a cubic metre of water currently varies depending on whether you are an individual, an industry, a large consumer or an administration. For individuals, the average price of a cubic metre of water is FCFA 293. For large consumers, however, the price can be different. These users, who require large quantities of water for their activities, can expect costs adapted to their needs, with a minimum of 300 FCFA.
