WFP strengthens ties with ports to optimize humanitarian aid distribution cargoes across the region

Yaoundé, Cameroon – September 27, 2024 – Amidst escalating conflicts and displacement across West and Central Africa, United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) is intensifying its efforts to ensure food reaches those in urgent need. Evelyn Etti, WFP’s Deputy Regional Director for West and Central Africa, has just completed a pivotal ten-day mission to Cameroon, running from 18 to 28 August.  Her visit was aimed at addressing WFP’s logistical challenges that threaten the smooth flow of humanitarian assistance through two key channels: the Douala Corridor and the Port of Kribi. 

During her visit to Douala, Etti engaged with major supply chain players, including Africa Global Logistics Group, GESPROS Group, and MAERSK. The meetings focused on identifying and resolving key bottlenecks affecting the transportation of food and essential supplies to crisis-hit areas across Cameroon, Central African Republic (CAR), Chad and Sudan

"Douala Corridor isn’t just a route, it’s a lifeline” Evelyn Etti stated, underscoring the strategic importance of this supply chain.  The corridor serves as a logistics center for WFP operations. This includes the management of port operations, customs formalities, and reshipping foodstuffs. However, the corridor faces significant challenges, such as deteriorating road conditions, sluggish customs procedures, and logistical delays, which hinder timely delivery of humanitarian food.

Etti’s visit included a thorough inspection of WFP’s supply chain warehouse in Douala. As she walked through the facility, observing the careful management of food storage, she highlighted a critical point: “Every delay here directly impacts people who are already in crisis.”

Next on Etti’s agenda was the Port of Kribi, a rapidly expanding gateway for humanitarian shipments. She met with key stakeholders, including Bernard Lacroux, Head of Exploitation at Kribi Container Terminal, and Norbert Belinga, Head of the Customs Office, to discuss how to enhance operational efficiency. Discussions focused on streamlining customs procedures, improving communication channels, and exploring infrastructure upgrades to handle the increasing demand.

The port has seen a significant uptick in cargo traffic, particularly due to the ongoing crisis in Sudan, placing additional strain on its capacity. "The Port of Kribi is becoming increasingly central to our operations” Etti noted. She noted that since 2020, WFP has shipped nearly 11,000 metric tons (equivalent to 608 containers) of food commodities (rice, peas, sorghum, vegetable oil, etc.) through this port, and with the escalating crises, this volume is expected to rise sharply.

As Etti concluded her mission in Cameroon, the urgency in addressing the delays in the delivery of food to the people most in need could not be overstated. Aboubacar Guindo, WFP Country Director ad interim, emphasized: “The Port of Kribi and Douala Corridor are essential for our operations. Any disruptions could significantly impact the communities depending on this assistance.”

With the region facing growing food insecurity, WFP remains steadfast in its commitment to overcoming these logistical challenges. By strengthening partnerships and optimizing operations, WFP is focused on ensuring that crucial supplies reach those who need them most, maintaining their access to life-saving assistance.

The ongoing efforts to refine and expand these logistical networks will be vital in addressing the humanitarian needs across West and Central Africa, reinforcing WFP’s role in alleviating the impact of the crises affecting millions.

The Deputy Regional Director Regional journey in Cameroon sparked a wave of inspiration among WFP staff.  She interacted with staff in Yaoundé on career objectives and challenges before stressing the importance of hard work, dedication and networking to reach global heights. Her message resonated deeply with the Cameroonian staff, particularly as fellow Cameroonian who had risen through the ranks of the organization to achieve a leadership position. Etti’s visit highlighted the importance of collaboration and the power of collective action in achieving WFP's mission to eradicate hunger.