The Parliament of the Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa (CEMAC) is currently holding its first ordinary session for the year 2025. The session, which began on February 3, 2025, is scheduled to end on March 4, 2025.
Cameroon’s delegation, led by Honorable Etong Hilarion, Vice President of the Community Parliament, is taking active part in the session.
The session, which kicked off on February 3, 2025, and will run until March 4, 2025, brings together lawmakers from six central African countries. The meeting is crucial, as it seeks to address the region’s economic challenges, including declining foreign exchange reserves and rising public debt.
Cameroon’s delegation, comprising Haman Tchiouto, Alioum Fadil, Ateawung Fojou Bernard, and Man Jacqueline Christiane épse Simbe, is actively engaging in debates and discussions. Their participation underscores Cameroon’s commitment to regional cooperation and economic integration.
On February 18, 2025, the President of the CEMAC Commission presented the annual report on the functioning and evolution of the community. The report was followed by a debate that focused on key issues, including the financing of the community and problems related to resource shortages.
The debate highlighted the challenges faced by the community due to the non-application of the Automatic Withdrawal Mechanism of the Community Integration Tax (TCI) by member states. This has resulted in difficulties in financing community projects and institutions.
After the debate, the report was referred to the Committee on Institutional Affairs for examination and recommendations.
Recently, the CEMAC Parliament signed a landmark cooperation agreement with the Moroccan House of Councillors. This pact aims to strengthen economic and parliamentary ties between the two parties, highlighting the importance of parliamentary diplomacy in promoting regional cooperation. The region’s economic outlook remains uncertain, with the region facing significant challenges. However, lawmakers are optimistic that the current session will yield meaningful decisions to stabilize the region’s economy.
As the session progresses, all eyes are on the CEMAC Parliament to deliver tangible solutions to the region’s economic woes. With Cameroon at the forefront, the stage is set for a productive and fruitful meeting.
Claudette Chin
