Cameroon prepares to host the 51st francophonie parliamentary assembly

Cameroon is gearing up to host a significant international gathering this year: the 51st General Assembly of the Assemblée Parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF). This prestigious event is scheduled to take place in Yaoundé from July 7 to 12, 2026, marking another major milestone for the nation following the 14th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization and a visit from Pope Leo XIV.

In anticipation of this important assembly, diplomatic efforts are actively underway. André-Magnus Ekoumou, Cameroon’s Ambassador to France, recently held an audience with Théodore Datouo, the President of the country’s National Assembly. Their discussions primarily focused on assessing Cameroon’s readiness to successfully organize the upcoming event.

Both officials conveyed strong confidence in Cameroon’s capacity to meet the organizational challenges, aligning with the strategic directives set forth by President Paul Biya. This commitment underscores the nation’s dedication to hosting a memorable and impactful assembly.

To ensure smooth participation for all delegates, the Cameroonian embassy in France has implemented special arrangements for issuing courtesy visas to all expected delegations, streamlining entry procedures for international attendees.

During the meeting, the President of Cameroon’s National Assembly emphasized the crucial need to strengthen parliamentary democracy. He also commended Ambassador Ekoumou for his exemplary guidance of Cameroonians residing in France, particularly their active involvement in Promote 2026, a major business forum held at the Yaoundé Congress Palace.

Further discussions included ongoing considerations for establishing a parliamentary museum within the National Assembly. The head of the lower house expressed a keen interest in drawing upon French expertise, particularly through the exchange of experiences and best practices, while also highlighting the vital role of digitalization in the future museum’s development.

A key agenda item for this upcoming APF session will be the election of a new Secretary-General for the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF). On the African continent, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda have emerged as prominent candidates for this influential position.