Cameroon’s economic capital is preparing to take a major step forward in transforming its urban transport system.
The Douala City Council (CUD) has officially launched a Call for Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the development of its first pilot tramway line. The ambitious project will be implemented in partnership with private investors, who will be responsible for the design, financing, construction, operation and maintenance of the infrastructure.
Stretching approximately 20 kilometres, the future line will connect the Bekoko interchange to the SCDP junction in Ndogsimbi, passing through the Deido roundabout. This strategic corridor is intended to improve transport services along the city's main routes and ease pressure on a road network facing increasing congestion.
Ambitious Targets
To meet the mobility needs of a growing and increasingly mobile population, the project has set particularly ambitious targets. Its projected capacity is expected to reach 750,000 passengers per day. During peak hours, trams are expected to operate at four-minute intervals.
Affordability is also among the project's key priorities. A subsidised fare of less than CFA 500 is being considered to ensure that the new transport system remains accessible to a broad segment of the population.
Private Investors Called Upon
To bring the project to fruition, the Douala City Council plans to adopt a public-private partnership model, with private investors providing the majority of the capital. This approach aims to mobilise the financial resources, technical capabilities and expertise required to develop and manage the infrastructure.
Through this initiative, the city's authorities aim to equip Douala with a modern, sustainable public transport system that offers greater convenience and improved mobility for commuters.
Interested companies and consortiums are invited to submit their applications by February 25, 2027. This deadline marks another milestone in the city's ambitions to transform its urban transport infrastructure.
