Cameroon truck drivers transporting goods to the Central African Republic (C.A.R.) have stopped shipments due to escalating violence along the trade route. These drivers demand military protection before resuming transport, citing increasing attacks by armed gangs. The trade corridor between Douala, Cameroon, and Bangui, C.A.R., is a crucial economic link, but insecurity has left hundreds of trucks stranded in Garoua-Boulai, a border town in eastern Cameroon.
Escalating Insecurity on the Douala-Bangui Route
For over two weeks, truck drivers have refused to transport goods into C.A.R. because of constant threats from armed groups. According to Kum Innocent, a truck driver, gangs frequently block roads, demand ransoms, and even kidnap transport workers. In late November, a Cameroonian truck driver was killed, and two mechanics were abducted while working on the Douala-Bangui highway.
"We can't enter Bangui right now because of the insecurity on the way," said Innocent. "Armed gangs set up roadblocks, kidnap drivers, and demand ransom. Many of our goods are spoiling, and we are suffering losses."
Government and Military Response
Truck drivers are demanding the immediate release of their kidnapped colleagues before considering resuming work. The head of Cameroon’s land freight transportation bureau, El Hadj Oumarou, emphasized that the Cameroon truck drivers want clear security measures from the C.A.R. government.
After a crisis meeting between officials from Cameroon and C.A.R., Cameroon agreed to reopen the border. However, the striking truckers remain hesitant. C.A.R. Transport Minister Gontrand Djono Ahaba assured drivers that military convoys would escort them for security. He reported that abandoned trucks had been located and promised their return soon.
Impact on Trade and Regional Stability
C.A.R. relies heavily on the Douala seaport for about 95% of its imported goods and humanitarian aid. The continued suspension of shipments threatens essential supplies and economic stability.
Cameroon's transport minister, Jean Ernest Messena Ngale Bibehe, confirmed that negotiations are ongoing to ensure that military escorts are available daily, free of charge, to protect truckers. However, given past instances of rebel violence, drivers remain skeptical of these assurances.
Call for Immediate Action
The situation highlights the need for a permanent security solution for cross-border trade between Cameroon and C.A.R. The reliance on military escorts, though temporary, could ease tensions and allow essential supplies to flow. Without concrete action, Cameroon’s trucking industry and the economies of both nations face continued disruption.
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