Cameroon, a country rich in oil and mining resources, finds itself once again “suspended” by the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (Itie). The organization believes, after evaluating the practices of the last three years, that Cameroon does not fully respect certain requirements in terms of transparency and governance.
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Cameroon obtains an overall score “ rather weak » to use the terminology of the Itie. This international organization ensures that the natural resources of member countries are exploited transparently and for the benefit of citizens. Its board of directors expresses “ his deep concern » concerning civil society and recalls that Cameroon – to respect its commitments in the implementation of the Itie standard – ” must protect civil society actors against acts of harassment, intimidation, or persecution if they express their opinions on the governance of the gas, oil, mining sectors “.
THE ” Cameroon is also required to disclose all contracts and licenses » and must make public an explanation of the role of state-owned enterprises, the rules and current practices that govern financial relations between them and the government.
“ Concerning revenues which do not pass through the accounts of the Public Treasury, their allocation must be explained », Continues the instance.
Regarding the notable cases of the last three years, the confessions of the multinational Glencorein 2022, “ concerning the payment of bribes, corruption of representatives of the National Oil Company (SNH) and the national refining company (Sonara) between 2012 and 2015 raises “, for the Itie “ significant concerns about credibility » of Cameroon’s efforts in terms of transparency.
The Itie makes a whole series of recommendations. Next point in eighteen months, then in 2027. Without progress, Cameroon is exposed to delisting.