(Ecofin Agency) - As an integral part of Cameroon-France cooperation, the Debt Reduction and Development Contract aims to transform part of Cameroon's debt to France into financing for development projects. The program targets sectors such as health, urban development, justice, education, agriculture and security.

Cameroon has secured a €20 million ($21.5 million) financing agreement with France for Phase 2 of the "Regional Capitals 1" program. This initiative, part of the Debt Reduction-Development Contract (C2D), aims to improve living conditions in Bertoua, Bafoussam, and Garoua by enhancing urban planning and the attractiveness of these cities.

Phase 1 had previously mobilized €125 million ($133 million) for the same cities. According to a statement from the French Development Agency (AFD) reported by Business in Cameroon, Phase 2 will include market improvements, the construction of a bus station in Bertoua, additional roadworks in Bafoussam, and supplementary water access facilities in Garoua.

The C2D program began in 2006 and has undergone three phases in 2006, 2011, and 2016. Initially focused on improving basic services and access in Yaoundé and Douala, it later expanded to regional capitals including Maroua and Bamenda.