BACK-TO-SCHOOL 2025/2026 : Businesses Turn Yaoundé’s 20th May Boulevard into a Hub of Good Deals for Parents
La voix des entreprises 
Parents are purchasing school supplies.
(LVDE) – By offering textbooks, school supplies, and food items at unbeatable prices, industrialists and economic operators are responding to the Ministry of Trade’s call, which officially launched the “Back-to-School Trade Fair 2025” on August 21.
Often synonymous with heavy expenses for parents, this year’s back-to-school season is taking place under the banner of reduced costs. On August 21, the Minister of Trade, Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana, kicked off the 2025 edition of the “Back-to-School Trade Fair” on 20th May Boulevard in Yaoundé. This initiative, which will run until the start of classes, aims to ease the financial burden of purchasing school and food supplies, providing genuine relief to many parents.
Along this symbolic avenue, nearly forty stalls have been set up, offering a wide range of products from school textbooks to essential foodstuffs, all at discounted prices. Savings range from 5% to 25% on books and supplies, representing significant financial support for households. For instance, a 50 kg bag of rice is being sold for 15,500 FCFA, while a kilogram of beef costs between 2,300 and 2,700 FCFA depending on the cut. These prices, well below the usual market rates, enhance the appeal of the initiative.
Beyond simple discounts, the initiative also emphasizes the promotion of local products. The company Pafic, present at the site, is attracting visitors with its bread and pastries made from cassava flour. Meanwhile, Yagoua rice, usually sold at 15,000 FCFA, is offered at 12,500 FCFA—illustrating the government’s commitment to supporting the local economy.
The participation of private companies is a key component of the initiative. Mama Group, a major player in retail distribution, decided to join the campaign. Its CEO, Mohamadou Daïrou, stated: “This is our way of supporting the government in its fight against high living costs.” For Pafic, the event is a unique opportunity: “It’s a great occasion to showcase the quality of our local products while helping families,” a company representative explained.
The crowds on 20th May Boulevard reflect the growing interest in the initiative. Mrs. Kamga, a mother of three, expressed her relief: “Being able to buy a bag of rice at 15,500 FCFA is a real relief for our budget.” The enthusiasm of visitors is palpable, with Mr. Owona adding: “This initiative helps us prepare for the school year with peace of mind while also improving our diet.”
Beyond immediate measures, this operation aligns with a broader vision of solidarity and social equity promoted by the Head of State. It aims to foster trust between sellers and buyers, thereby strengthening community ties. Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana expressed his optimism: “In this period of global economic tension, the Back-to-School Trade Fair model stands out as a dynamic and social policy, putting purchasing power at the heart of our priorities.”
Organized nationwide, the 2025 edition of the Back-to-School Trade Fair stands as a breath of fresh air for Cameroonian households during this crucial period. Parents can thus face the new school year with greater peace of mind, supported by an initiative that places their needs at the forefront.
Esther Grace
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