Cameroon Reclaims Its Power: A New Era of Light, Dignity, and Sovereignty

Yaoundé, November 2025, Cameroon’s energy sector has entered a historic new chapter as the government finalizes the buyback of Eneo Cameroon, returning the electricity distributor to full national ownership after more than twenty years under foreign control.
The landmark agreement, signed between the State and British investment fund Actis, ends a partnership that began in 2014 when Actis acquired majority shares from AES Corporation and rebranded the utility as Eneo. While the privatization was intended to modernize infrastructure and expand electrification, the relationship was marked by both cooperation and persistent challenges.

A Complex Partnership
Actis brought international capital and management expertise, promising efficiency and improved governance. Yet the company faced mounting difficulties:

• Debt disputes – Eneo struggled with arrears owed by the State and public institutions, amounting to hundreds of billions of CFA francs.
• Infrastructure strain – Despite investments, households and businesses continued to endure frequent power outages and limited modernization of transmission lines.
• Public frustration – Citizens often criticized the gap between promised improvements and lived realities, fueling calls for greater government control.

A Strategic National Decision
By reacquiring Eneo, the Cameroonian government now holds 95% of shares, with the remaining 5% reserved for staff ownership. The move reflects President Paul Biya’s long‑term vision of economic sovereignty, modernization of strategic infrastructure, and reliable electricity access for all citizens.
Officials emphasize that nationalization will allow Cameroon to:

• Modernize the grid and expand rural electrification.
• Improve service quality and reduce outages.
• Ensure better oversight of energy investments.

Symbolism and Future Outlook
The buyback is more than a financial transaction—it is a symbolic reclaiming of national sovereignty. For households, businesses, and industries, it represents hope for a more stable energy future. For policymakers, it signals a shift toward prioritizing domestic control over strategic sectors.
As Cameroon embarks on this new era, the legacy of Actis remains a reminder of the complexities of privatization in essential services. The government’s bold step now places responsibility squarely in national hands, with expectations high that the promise of reliable electricity will finally be realized.