Cameroon gears up for 51st Francophonie Assembly

Yaoundé is set to host a major diplomatic gathering next year as the city prepares to welcome the 51st Francophonie Parliamentary Assembly, scheduled from July 7 to 12, 2026. This marks Cameroon’s third high-profile international event in recent months, following the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference and the visit of Pope Léon XIV.

The country’s preparations have already begun, with Ambassador André-Magnus Ekoumou of Cameroon meeting with National Assembly President Théodore Datouo to discuss logistical and diplomatic arrangements. Both leaders reaffirmed their confidence in Cameroon’s ability to successfully host this prestigious event, aligned with President Paul Biya’s vision for international engagement.

At the French embassy in Cameroon, streamlined visa processes are being implemented to ensure smooth entry for all delegations attending the assembly. During the discussion, President Datouo emphasized the importance of strengthening parliamentary democracy and praised the ambassador’s efforts in supporting Cameroonians abroad, particularly in facilitating their participation in Promote 2026—the upcoming business summit in Yaoundé.

The meeting also highlighted plans for a new parliamentary museum within the National Assembly. President Datouo expressed interest in leveraging French expertise to modernize the project, with a focus on digitalization and best practices. This initiative aims to preserve Cameroon’s legislative history while fostering international collaboration.

A key highlight of the assembly will be the election of the next Secretary-General of the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF). African candidates, including the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, are among the frontrunners for this influential role.