The methodology for utilization of the funds from the Swiss government was reviewed in Yaounde on March 14.
The Minister of Economy, Planning and Regional Development, Alamine Ousmane Mey on March 14, chaired the first session of the steering and follow up committee for the implementation of a FCFA 3.4 billion grant, offered by the government of the Swiss Federation for funding of renewable energy projects in Cameroon and promotion of its private sector.
The Rural Electrification Agency would be in charge of energy projects while the Ministry of Trade would oversee projects aimed at promoting private investments, especially in the domains of industrialization. The projects would be selected by the steering and follow up committee and submitted to the general secretariat of the economy ministry.
During yesterday’s meeting, Minister Ousmane Mey, the Swiss Ambassador to Cameroon, Pietro Lazzeri and other committee members made several proposals for modification of the draft working document; deadlines, resource allocations, priorities among other elements were reviewed.
Ambassador Pietro Lazzeri suggested the projects should fall in line with national programs and that the deadlines should be set taking the electoral calendar into consideration in a bid to avoid possible delays and disruptions.
Minister Ousmane Mey said he is hopeful that they will be able to issue a tender in the weeks ahead so that local councils, private and public companies can apply to benefit from the grant and execute projects that would increase energy production and help the national economy to develop.
He also harped on government’s expectations that renewable energy projects would help the country to keep the climate commitment taken at the recent COP 21 climate change summit.
“It will significantly support the private sector operators who are the economic growth engine and wealth creators that would spearhead the development of our nation” he said.
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