April 3, 2008

Here Comes the Second Cameroon Investment Forum

By Lukong Pius Nyuylime, Cameroon Tribune (Yaoundé)

It is expected to take place in Yaounde from 15 to 17 April this year.

Cameroon will as from 15 to 17 April host yet another International Investment forum code named, Cameroon Investment Forum, jointly organised by the Cameroon government and the Commonwealth Business Council, the Minister of Trade, Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana announced in Yaounde yesterday.

The forum, the second of its kind taking place in Cameroon is expected to witness the participation of investors from Europe, America, Africa and Asia including top ranking international speakers. Minister Mbarga Atangana told journalists in a press conference yesterday that the forum will not only provide another opportunity for businesses to canvass for venues of investment, but will enable the government to update investors on what has been done so far to enhance the business environment in the country. "Securing Sustainable Long-Term Investment", is the theme chosen for this year's forum. "Our aim is to put to the best possible use the wide range of human, natural and mineral resources available in Cameroon to create sustainable growth", Mbarga Atangana told pressmen.

According to information from the secretariat of the Commonwealth Business Council, among the participants expected at the forum are 20 top level interntional speakers from Holland, United States, France, United Kingdom, Nigeria, Zambia, South Africa, India and Egypt. The forum will be introducing an exciting innovation compared to the first edition; the "project book" which will be made available to all delegates. The book will contain information on necessary for technical and financial partners.

"The economy cannot progress without investment, Richard Howe, Chairman of the West African Business Association, Cameroon, one of the CBC advisers said during the press conference. To Prof. Steve Godfrey, Managing Director of CBC, it takes time for new companies to learn about countries. He said this to explain why it might be taking time for the impact of the first forum to be felt in Cameroon. And talking about impact, pressmen wanted to know what the situation has been so far. "Government has been able to bring members of the private sector together and a lot of fiscal reforms have taken place", Mbarga Atangana said.

The three orators who spoke at the press conference pointed out to the creation of the Prime Minister's Investment Council which has been able to meet thrice, as one of the major achievements of the Commonwealth Business Council.