• State buys back 95 % of ENEO from Actis for CFA78 billion ($137 million)
• Government plans to refinance ENEO’s CFA800 billion debt and tighten billing
• Measures target higher industrial demand and reduced fraud across the grid

The Cameroonian government has regained control of ENEO, the country’s main electricity supplier, by acquiring the 95 % stake held by the British fund Actis for CFA78 billion ($137 million). The transfer agreement was signed on Wednesday, November 19, 2025.

Energy Minister Gaston Eloundou Essomba said the takeover is “an essential prerequisite” for launching the reforms needed to stabilize the electricity system. The national grid continues to face persistent challenges. Delayed payments to independent producers such as Nachtigal, Kribi, and Memve’ele have weakened the production and distribution chain. They have also caused disputes with Sonatrel, the transmission operator, disrupting supply and slowing the modernization of infrastructure.

The government has outlined several priority actions. The first is to refinance ENEO’s debt, estimated at CFA800 billion at the end of 2024, to restore liquidity and secure payments to producers and suppliers. It also plans to impose strict billing and collection discipline, including for public administrations, which are often cited for arrears.

Authorities aim to expand the industrial customer base. With the rollout of the second energy corridor to Douala, demand could rise by 150 MW as early as 2026, generating about CFA50 billion in additional revenue.

The fight against fraud, which accounts for nearly 15 % of network losses (about CFA60 billion per month), will also be strengthened. Planned measures include the widespread use of modern meters, the regularization of connections, and tighter field controls.