Cameroon has approved the renationalisation of its main electricity operator, marking a decisive shift in control over a sector long plagued by instability.
The move follows a presidential decree signed by Paul Biya, placing the state as the sole shareholder of the company.
The firm, formerly known as Eneo Cameroon, will now operate under the new name Cameroon Electricity Company, or Socadel.
Eneo, privatised in 2001, has faced persistent criticism over ageing infrastructure, frequent outages, and mounting unpaid bills across the country.
The decision comes after the government acquired a 51 percent stake from Actis for 78 billion CFA francs, equivalent to 139 million dollars.
Before the purchase, the state already controlled 44 percent, bringing its total stake to 95 percent, with employees holding the remaining shares.
Officials say the renationalisation reflects growing urgency to stabilise electricity supply for nearly 30 million citizens relying on the grid.
Energy Minister Gaston Eloundou Essomba chaired the first board meeting of Socadel in Yaounde, signalling a new administrative chapter.
He called for a decisive departure from past management practices, urging reforms aimed at restoring reliability and financial discipline within the sector.
Yet the reborn company inherits a heavy burden, with debts estimated at 800 billion CFA francs by the end of 2024.
As Cameroon reclaims control, expectations rise that state oversight may illuminate a path toward steadier power and renewed public trust.