Cameroon is stepping up preparations to host the 51st General Assembly of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Francophonie (APF) in July 2026. The event, scheduled to take place in Yaoundé from July 7 to 12, marks the country’s third major international gathering this year, following the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference and the visit of Pope Leo XIV.
diplomatic and logistical preparations underway
The Cameroonian ambassador to France, André-Magnus Ekoumou, recently met with the president of the National Assembly, Théodore Datouo, to review the country’s readiness for the high-profile event. Discussions centered on the government’s commitment to meeting all logistical and diplomatic requirements, aligning with the strategic vision set by President Paul Biya.
In France, the Cameroonian embassy is implementing special measures to streamline the issuance of courtesy visas for incoming delegations, ensuring smooth entry for participants from around the francophone world.
democratic engagement and parliamentary innovation
During the meeting, Théodore Datouo underscored the importance of strengthening parliamentary democracy in Cameroon. He commended Ambassador Ekoumou for his dedication to supporting Cameroonians abroad, particularly in facilitating their participation in Promote 2026, the major business forum set to take place at the Palais des Congrès in Yaoundé.
The two leaders also explored plans to establish a parliamentary museum within the National Assembly. Datouo emphasized the value of French expertise in this project, highlighting opportunities for knowledge sharing and digital integration to modernize the institution’s archives and public outreach.
a continental spotlight on francophonie leadership
As Cameroon prepares to welcome delegates, another critical discussion looms: the election of the next Secretary-General of the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF). The Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda are emerging as the leading African contenders for the position, adding a layer of regional significance to the Yaoundé assembly.
The APF General Assembly in 2026 is poised to be a defining moment for Cameroon’s role in the francophone community, blending diplomatic engagement, institutional progress, and continental leadership.
