Title: The Olembé sports complex in Cameroon: an agreement reached to relaunch the work
The Olembé sports complex, located in the northern suburbs of Yaoundé in Cameroon, is at the heart of a new saga. After being used during the last African Cup of Nations, the site experienced many problems and remained unfinished. But today, good news is on the horizon: the Cameroonian state and the Canadian company Magil have reached an agreement to resume the work.
The situation between the two partners was tense at the start of the year. Magil threatened to terminate its contract due to non-payment, while the Sports Ministry accused the company of overcharging and abandoning the project. However, both parties managed to overcome their differences and agreed to work together to complete the sports complex.
Magil’s first objective will be to repair the various defects present in the Olembé stadium, such as piping problems, doors that do not close correctly or even toilets that are out of order. Once these repairs have been completed, construction will be able to resume on a large scale. In addition to the stadium and sports grounds, the complex also plans to build a hotel, a shopping center, a swimming pool and a gymnasium.
However, no date has been given for the completion of the project. So far, 155 billion CFA francs (around 236 million euros) have been invested, according to the Ministry of Sports. In January, the latter accused Magil of delays and overbudget. For its part, the Canadian company launched an emergency procedure with the Paris Court of International Arbitration in order to obtain the release of funds from the loan contracted with the SCB bank. On April 14, 2023, the court ordered Cameroon to pay more than 23 million euros to Magil.
A new structure, the National Office for Infrastructure and Sports Equipment (Onies), will now be Magil’s contact. Led by former footballer Joseph-Antoine Bell, the Onies will ensure that the mistakes of the past are not repeated. Bell emphasizes the importance of working in a climate of trust and taking the time necessary to evaluate the invoices and move forward calmly on the project.
This agreement between the Cameroonian State and Magil opens new perspectives for the Olembé sports complex. Let’s hope that this time, the work can be carried out, thus providing a quality sports venue to Cameroonians.