An estimate of 550 billion presented to China for CAN 2016 and 2017

The Cameroonian government has presented around 550 billion FCfa to China to help set up stadiums for the 2016 Women’s African Cup of Nations (CAN) and that of the Men’s in 2019, according to sources of APA.

The amount, confirmed by Le Jour newspaper, is for the construction of a 60,000 and 50, 000 seater stadiums in Yaoundé and Douala respectively. Each has been estimated at FCfa 150 billion. Landscaping which is underway for stadiums in Bafoussam (West) and Limbe (South West) will cost 10 billion FCfa each.

It also concerns the rehabilitation of existing stadiums in Bafoussam, Douala, Garoua and Yaounde, for a total of 158 billion CFA francs and the construction of networks and various access channels at 72 billion FCFA.

The total amount does not cover the investments in communications infrastructure, telecommunications, housing or health.

Cameroon has managed to postpone the Women’s CAN 2016 which was to take place within a month; from November 19 to December 3, 2016 for formal reasons. “Heavy rainfalls” which could disrupt the course of the competition were cited.

However, sources indicated a general 'climate' of unpreparedness by the National Committee of CAN 2016 and 2019, set in early October 2014 and chaired by the Prime Minister. It is still developing an effective timetable and detailed actions to take,'' the source stated.