The 500-page whitepaper, “Power 237,” a product of Dr. Guy Gweth’s research, analysis, and consultation, aims to equip Cameroon with a strategy to become a regional power. To be released on 30 January 2025, in both French and English, this work is divided into seven parts and thirty-five chapters. It seeks to provide a strategic, pragmatic, and inclusive contribution to Cameroon’s future.
A Project Building on the Past, but with Renewed Ambition
“Power 237” builds upon previous efforts such as “Cameroon Vision 2035,” the GESP, and the NDS30, without contradicting them theoretically. The work acknowledges their achievements but offers an updated and more operational reading of the challenges and opportunities. It aims to go beyond general observations and orientations to propose concrete strategies, specific and quantifiable indicators, and more ambitious yet achievable goals. The methodological approach is based on a comparative analysis between “Vision 2035” and “Power 237,” examining the translation and implementation of objectives in various planning documents. The emphasis is on achieving concrete and measurable results, with rigorous monitoring and evaluation mechanisms.
A Committed and Inclusive Engagement for a Strong Cameroon
“Power 237” aims to be a tool for mobilization and action, seeking to engage all stakeholders in a collective dynamic. The work adopts a pedagogical tone to facilitate understanding and ownership of the discourse by all. It also presents itself as a dynamic and inclusive working tool, encouraging the contribution of all Cameroonians to co-construct a vision of modern and relevant power. A long version of the report, intended for decision-makers and government authorities, addresses more sensitive issues related to national security, requiring increased confidentiality.
From Fighting Poverty to Seeking Regional Power
The work starts from the observation that successive development plans, although based on the objectives of “Vision 2035,” do not show sufficient progress towards the desired results. “Power 237” therefore intervenes to readjust objectives and indicators, in order to define more realistic and relevant actions. Free from all bias, it proposes a strategic reflection for a strong, prosperous, and internationally respected Cameroon.
Regional Power: A Holistic Vision
In “Power 237,” regional power is envisioned as a comprehensive capacity for influence and projection, based on a strategic combination of three interdependent dimensions:
- Hard Power: Traditional means of power, such as armed forces, strategic natural resources, and industrial capacity.
- Soft Power: Cultural attractiveness, shared values, intellectual influence, and diplomatic sway.
- Smart Power: The intelligent combination of hard and soft power, adapting resources to contexts and objectives.
Cameroon is thus invited to develop a balanced and sustainable regional power by investing in these three dimensions and articulating them coherently.
Why is this ambition relevant?
Several factors justify this ambition according to Guy Gweth: the solid foundations laid by the GESP (Growth and Employment Stratrgy Paper) and “Cameroon Vision 2035,” the favorable international context for the emergence of new powers, and the necessity to free Cameroon from the sneer of underdevelopment
Mobilizing the Vital Forces of the Nation
To achieve this goal, Cameroon must mobilize the three dimensions of power:
- Hard Power: Massive investments in military capabilities, strengthening internal and external security, developing a national defense industry, aggressive policy for the development of physical infrastructure, and policies for industrialization and export.
- Soft Power: Promotion of culture, history, and values; support for cultural exchanges; development of education and research; and strengthening cooperation with other African countries.
- Smart Power: Intelligent combination of hard power and soft power, development of active diplomacy, strengthening economic partnerships, and promoting regional cooperation.
The Role of Different Stakeholders
The strategic state must update and clarify its vision, set strategic objectives with precise indicators, mobilize the necessary resources, and coordinate the actions of various actors. Businesses must invest in benchmarking, research and development, innovate, and create jobs. The academic world must train the necessary skills, conduct cutting-edge research, and disseminate knowledge. The media must inform citizens and promote the country’s image abroad. Development partners can contribute to strategic supplies.
Conclusion
The goal of becoming a leading power in Africa by 2050 is an ambitious challenge, but deemed achievable by Dr. Guy Gweth and all the stakeholders consulted. It will require strong political will and an unprecedented mobilization of all the vital forces of the nation. The work thus appears as a significant contribution to the in-depth reflection on the future of Cameroon and a concrete tool to transform this ambition into reality.
The Editorial Team