The cross-border digital connectivity and cooperation between the two countries is aimed to improve digital infrastructure, reduce latency, and facilitate seamless roaming services.
Cameroon and Chad have strengthened the bilateral relation that exist between the two nations by taking steps geared toward boosting cross-border digital connectivity and cooperation between with the aim to improve digital infrastructure, reduce latency, and facilitate seamless roaming services. This was during a recent visit by the Chadian minister for posts and telecommunications, digital economy and the digitalization of the Chadian administration in Yaounde recently.
The meeting focused on long-pending issues, resulted in concrete agreements that promise to transform telecommunications between the two neighboring nations. In an unprecedented show of cooperation, Cameroon’s state-owned operator CAMTEL agreed to let Chad install surveillance equipment at its submarine cable landing station – a rare concession in an industry known for guarding critical infrastructure. Industry experts present at the talks described this as a landmark decision reflecting growing trust between the two countries. The move is expected to enhance regional internet security and monitoring capabilities.
The negotiations also produced revised pricing for fiber optic capacity leasing, particularly for high-speed connections above 100 Gbps. This adjustment, long sought by Chadian operators, is anticipated to lower costs and improve digital access across the sub-region. Another major outcome was the finalization of the CEMAC free roaming agreement, first signed in 2021 but delayed until now. Implementation will allow mobile users to travel between member states without additional charges, with border communities standing to benefit most. Frequency coordination emerged as another key discussion point, with both countries agreeing to reduce transmission power in border areas and update their bilateral spectrum agreement.
Cameroon’s Minister of Posts and Telecommunications, Minette Libom Li Likeng, emphasized the need for joint solutions to shared challenges, a sentiment echoed by her Chadian counterpart who called for “active solidarity” in implementing the agreements. A joint monitoring committee will oversee progress, with an evaluation meeting scheduled for July in Yaoundé. Immediate priorities include completing critical network segments, conducting performance audits, and strengthening operator oversight.
Observers suggest this enhanced cooperation could set a precedent for other CEMAC nations, with one attending diplomat noting the broader vision of building a unified African digital community. The agreements mark a step toward deeper regional integration in telecommunications infrastructure and services.
