N’Djamena revives Cameroon-Chad-CAR transit corridors

The Chad government is accelerating efforts to revitalize the transit corridors connecting N’Djamena to Douala and Bangui. A major logistical modernization program has been relaunched to streamline trade flows between Cameroon, Chad, and the Central African Republic (CAR), all of which rely heavily on the port of Douala. The initiative goes beyond road infrastructure—it aims to boost economic competitiveness, enhance food security, and strengthen regional integration within the Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa (CEMAC).

Critical lifeline for landlocked economies

The Cameroon corridor is the lifeblood of trade for both Chad and the CAR. Historically, nearly 90% of Chad’s imports pass through Douala, the subregion’s primary deep-water port. The 1,800-kilometer Douala–N’Djamena route serves as the backbone of foreign trade, and any disruptions—whether due to poor road conditions, bureaucratic hurdles, or security threats—lead to immediate price surges in the Chadian capital.

The Douala–Bangui corridor faces similar challenges, compounded by a decade of instability in northeastern CAR. Economic operators report delays of several weeks on certain segments, far exceeding the theoretical transit time of around ten days. These inefficiencies erode the competitiveness of goods and deter potential investors. Despite repeated financing by the World Bank and the African Development Bank (AfDB) for key sections, systemic issues persist.

N’Djamena’s economic diplomacy push

By relaunching this project, Chadian authorities are signaling a renewed political commitment. The initiative aligns with a broader economic diplomacy strategy under President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, aimed at solidifying Chad’s regional influence. N’Djamena seeks to negotiate more favorable terms with Yaoundé regarding transit fluidity, port tariffs, and convoy security. Bilateral consultations have already begun to harmonize customs procedures, reduce checkpoints, and accelerate the adoption of electronic cargo-tracking systems.

The CAR dimension remains a priority. As a fellow dependant on the port of Douala, Bangui supports strengthened trilateral coordination. Joint discussions could pave the way for shared investments and a unified stance in negotiations with technical and financial partners. However, turning political commitments into tangible results faces significant budgetary constraints, with all three countries operating under tight fiscal margins.

Key challenges to sustainable corridor development

Beyond high-level announcements, meaningful progress requires structural reforms. Persistent roadblocks—such as redundant inspections, informal levies, and prolonged border delays—continue to plague the Cameroonian and Chadian routes. These inefficiencies inflate transport costs and fuel corruption. A long-promised joint border post between Kousséri and N’Djamena has yet to become fully operational.

Security risks also loom large. The Lake Chad region remains vulnerable to attacks by Boko Haram-affiliated groups, while northern CAR’s instability persists due to non-state armed factions. Without lasting stabilization, logistical promises will remain fragile. Additionally, competition from Nigeria’s Port Harcourt—and, in the long term, Cameroon’s Kribi deep-sea port—threatens to reshape regional transit dynamics. Kribi’s development could redirect trade flows away from Douala, prompting a rethink of supply chain strategies.

The Chadian-led initiative is both timely and complex. Its success hinges on the ability of the three countries to convert pledges into bankable projects, backed by international donors and paired with governance reforms.

related topics

• CMA CGM secures €700 million logistics deal in Kenya
• Kassoum Traoré named interim CEO of Port of Abidjan
• Gabon allocates 133 billion FCFA to modernize the Transgabonais railway