The construction site of the future Nachtigal hydroelectric power station has generated several thousand jobs in the region, but has also led to economic displacement. According to the Nachtigal Hydro Power Company (NHPC), more than 1,600 people were affected by this project, mainly farmers, fishermen, sandblasters and market traders.
These people, accustomed to a lifestyle focused on agriculture and fishing, had to face the sudden cessation of their activities due to the construction of the hydroelectric dam. To survive economically, many have had to retrain professionally.
This is particularly the case of Florent Lamour Sindono Mbatoua, who previously took care of unloading sand canoes on the banks of the Sanaga River. With the construction of the dam, this activity was interrupted, pushing Florent to consider reconversion.
“Here, we make concrete blocks to build buildings. I have employees. They are currently at the construction site,” explains Florent, who created his own company called “Établissement Mbatoua et fils”. Thanks to the support of the NHPC, Florent was able to benefit from financial compensation and entrepreneurship training to launch into this new activity.
The NHPC is implementing individual retraining plans to help people affected by the construction site. It works in collaboration with partners, associations and NGOs to identify the activities in which these people would like to retrain and put in place the necessary means to do so. Monitoring is also provided to ensure success in this transition.
However, despite the NHPC’s efforts, complaints have been filed regarding insufficient and late compensation. IFI Synergy Cameroon, an NGO, sent a complaint to the African Development Bank, highlighting these shortcomings. The NHPC, however, assures that it has put in place a conflict management mechanism and that it is in discussions with the people concerned to resolve these problems.
The construction of the Nachtigal hydroelectric power station therefore had a considerable economic impact in the region. While it has created jobs, it has also caused disruption for many people who have had to reinvent themselves professionally. Despite the challenges and complaints, the NHPC strives to find solutions to best support the populations affected by this project.