With its sights set on hosting a third major international gathering this year, Cameroon is accelerating preparations for the 51st Francophonie Parliamentary Assembly (APF) slated for Yaoundé from July 7-12, 2026.

Key discussions have already taken center stage as Cameroon’s ambassador to France, André-Magnus Ekoumou, met with National Assembly President Théodore Datouo to review progress on the event’s organization. The meeting underscored the country’s readiness to meet the high expectations set by President Paul Biya’s administration.

Amid these preparations, Cameroon’s embassy in France has implemented streamlined visa processes to ensure smooth entry for all attending delegations. The diplomatic mission is also coordinating closely with the African diaspora in France, particularly to support their participation in Promote 2026—the upcoming business summit at the Palais des Congrès in Yaoundé.

Strengthening parliamentary democracy

President Datouo emphasized the importance of reinforcing democratic parliamentary practices, while commending the ambassador’s efforts in supporting Cameroonian nationals abroad. The assembly also explored plans to establish a parliamentary museum within the National Assembly, with a strong digital focus and potential collaboration with French institutions to share best practices.

African leadership in the spotlight

Another critical agenda item will be the election of the next Secretary-General of the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF), where the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda emerge as the leading African contenders.