The Cameroon Electricity Corporation (SOCADEL) and Cameroon Telecommunications (CAMTEL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore ways of sharing their networks and infrastructure. The initiative aims to reduce costs, improve connectivity and make better use of existing facilities.
The agreement was signed in Yaoundé on Friday, October 16, 2026. It will allow the two state-owned companies to study how they can work together to improve their operations and the services they provide to customers.
Under the proposed partnership, CAMTEL will contribute its national fibre-optic network, telecommunications facilities and technical expertise. SOCADEL, on its part, will make use of its electricity infrastructure, including poles and access routes, to support the initiative.
The cooperation could help CAMTEL extend its fibre-optic network to more areas and improve the reliability of internet and telecommunications services. For SOCADEL, it could strengthen connections between its offices, operational centres and other important facilities, while supporting the modernisation of its operations.
The partnership is also expected to reduce unnecessary duplication of infrastructure, particularly in urban areas where several companies may install separate facilities along the same roads. Sharing some of these resources could help both companies control costs and make infrastructure deployment more efficient.
Oumarou Hamandjoda, GM of SOCADEL
Speaking after the signing, SOCADEL General Manager Oumarou Hamandjoda said the agreement demonstrated the commitment of both state-owned companies to work together to develop national infrastructure in a coordinated manner. He expressed hope that the initiative would quickly move towards a detailed agreement and an initial phase of implementation at selected pilot sites.
Judith Yah Sunday, GM CAMTEL
CAMTEL General Manager Judith Yah Sunday épouse Achidi said the initiative would help the companies make better use of their existing infrastructure, expand connectivity and improve service quality. She added that combining their networks could reduce deployment costs and create new opportunities for delivering services.
However, the agreement is only the first step. The two companies will conduct technical, legal and economic studies to determine how infrastructure sharing can be implemented. These studies will also consider public safety, compliance with regulations and the protection of each company's rights.
The results will guide the preparation of a more detailed framework agreement, which will define the conditions and responsibilities for implementing the project.
By
The Observer
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