A new era of economic empowerment and accessible energy was ushered in the Northwest region on May 9, 2025, with the official inauguration of a state-of-the-art Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) filling centre. The landmark project, situated in Banshie, Bamendankwe within the Bamenda 1 municipality, promises to create 1,000 direct jobs and supply gas at the government-approved price of 6,500 CFA for a 12.5kg cylinder.
The Minister of Water Resources and Energy, Gaston Eloundu, representing the Prime Minister and head of government, presided over the event, marking a significant step towards equitable development in the region. Minister Eloundu conveyed the Prime Minister’s appreciation for the local population’s warm reception of the project in his inaugural address, emphasising its potential to significantly boost the region’s development and economic prowess.
“This domestic gas storage and filling centre aligns perfectly with the energy development master plan of our country,” he stated. “Currently, seven such gas filling and storage centres exist nationwide, and we are committed to ensuring other regions also benefit from similar initiatives.”
Minister Eloundu made a key announcement regarding the guaranteed affordable price of gas in Bamenda. “A 12.5kg gas cylinder will be sold at 6,500 CFA here in Bamenda, the approved price by the government,” he declared, attracting applause from the attendees. He further highlighted the significant job creation potential, stating that the facility is expected to generate 1,000 direct jobs.
Addressing environmental concerns, Minister Eloundu urged the population to embrace domestic gas as a cleaner alternative to firewood, emphasising its role in combating deforestation in the region. He also issued a strong warning to administrative authorities against any fraudulent practices that could work against struggling households.
The gas filling centre’s benefits extend beyond energy access and job creation. Minister Eloundu announced plans for a 2 to 3-phase electricity line specifically serving the facility, which will also lead to the replacement of other transformers, benefiting the wider community. He urged the local population to protect the facility and promote its services.
The Minister urged SCDP management to prioritise recruiting Bamenda residents. The government also plans to train individuals interested in trading with the gas filling station, empowering local entrepreneurs.
The inauguration was met with enthusiasm. Bamenda City Mayor, Paul Achobong Tambeng, made it clear that “…this is a new dawn in Bamenda, a moment where promises meet progress. This gas plant is a tangible move to observe equitable development, a testament to what can be achieved through perseverance and commitment.”
