Sustainable management of major road projects in Cameroon

Sustainable management of major road projects in Cameroon is subject to legal provisions that make the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) an essential reference. In recent years, however, there have been shortcomings in the implementation of the measures prescribed by this tool. It was against this backdrop that this study was carried out, with the aim of understanding and improving the way in which safety and environmental aspects were taken into account in the Yaoundé-Nsimalen motorway construction project. To achieve these objectives: in-depth semi-structured interviews and direct observations were carried out; the data was analysed using the content analysis technique, compliance analysis and the analysis of Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats. This study revealed that the non-conformities identified and analysed were due to certain shortcomings in the Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP), the approximate implementation of ESMP measures by the company, and insufficient monitoring of ESMP implementation. Recommendations have been formulated for various stakeholders to ensure sustainable management.