Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Daniel D
Published on 2024-03-05 21:21:18
The Association of Promoters of Interurban Transport Agencies of Cameroon (APITAC) has recently announced an increase in transport fares between certain towns, mainly in the North West and South West regions of the country.
This decision to raise transport fares is due to two consecutive increases in fuel prices in 2023 and 2024, as well as the social sacrifices that the agencies have been making to provide passengers with the best possible services.
According to a document released by the travel agencies, the new fares will come into effect from the 5th of March 2024. The minimum fares for interurban passenger transportation in classic buses are as follows: Yaoundé-Bamenda or Bamenda-Yaoundé at 6500 FCFA, Douala-Bamenda or Bamenda-Douala at 6500 FCFA, Bamenda-Buea or Buea-Bamenda at 7500 FCFA, Bamenda-Limbe or Limbe-Bamenda at 7500 FCFA, and Bamenda-Kumba or Kumba-Bamenda at 8500 FCFA.
One frustrated Cameroonian expressed his dissatisfaction with the fare hike, citing a basic calculation that shows the significant increase in fares compared to the minimal rise in fuel prices. He argued that the transport companies were making excessive profits from the fare increase and called on the authorities to reconsider their decision.
The decision to increase transport costs comes in the context of a broader increase in fares by the Minister of Commerce for commercial taxis in towns. The minister raised the daytime fare from 300 to 350 FCFA and the nighttime fare from 350 to 400 FCFA due to the rising fuel prices.
To alleviate the financial burden on citizens, the government also raised the minimum wage from 41,000 to 43,000 FCFA.
Overall, the adjustments in transportation fares and wages are a response to the escalating fuel prices and aim to balance the needs of both transport providers and passengers. It remains to be seen how these increases will impact the daily lives of Cameroonians, especially those relying on interurban transport services in the affected regions.
Read the original article(French) on Mimi Mefo Info
