The Logone Bridge: A Symbol of Unity and Progress in Central Africa
Thousands of people living along the Logone River have long faced the dangers of crossing from one side to the other of this natural boundary. Pierre Fissou, a teaching adviser in Cameroon, shares his experiences of the perils of using canoes or swimming across the river, risking their lives in the process. However, a new chapter has begun with the construction of the Logone Bridge, a strategic investment of over 578 million euros, funded by the African Development Bank, the African Development Fund, the European Union, and the Cameroonian and Chadian governments.
The completion of this bridge after five years of construction has brought immense relief to residents on both sides of the river. Pierre Fissou, who recently crossed the bridge for the first time, describes the experience as “unbelievable”, as what used to be a 45-minute to an hour-long journey now takes just a few moments. The bridge not only provides a safer means of transport but also opens up new opportunities for cross-border trade and regional integration.
The Logone Bridge connects the town of Yagoua in Cameroon’s Far North with Bongor in southern Chad, contributing significantly to the High-5 objective of regional integration set by the African Development Bank. Serge N’Guessan, the Bank’s Managing Director for Central Africa, commended the project as a model of regional cooperation and an engine of economic transformation for Central Africa. With improved movement of people and goods, the bridge is reducing logistics costs and increasing business opportunities for agricultural producers and traders in the region.
Local residents like Pierre and traders like Fatimé Mahamat are already reaping the economic benefits of the bridge. Fatimé expresses her excitement about reaching new markets without risking her life or goods. The bridge is not just a piece of infrastructure but a symbol of unity, security, and progress for the people living along the Logone River.
As the bridge prepares for its official opening, the celebrations are anticipated to be a testament to the unity and progress it represents. This new transport link between Cameroon and Chad demonstrates that a prosperous and integrated Africa is achievable despite the challenges. The Logone Bridge is not just a physical connection across a river but a bridge to a brighter future for the people of Central Africa.
The Logone Bridge project showcases the impact of collaboration and investment in infrastructure on regional development and unity. It is a testament to what can be achieved when countries work together towards a common goal. The bridge is a symbol of hope and progress for the people of Cameroon and Chad, paving the way for a more interconnected and prosperous future.
