RAIL TRANSPORT : Camrail records a 4.8% increase in freight revenue in 2024

(LVDE) – According to recently published results from Cameroon Railways (Camrail), the company generated XAF 47.5 billion in revenue from its freight operations in 2024. This performance points to promising prospects for the company, which remains at the heart of Cameroon’s rail transport sector.

Cameroon Railways, commonly known as Camrail, reported strong results for the 2024 financial year. Freight revenue amounted to XAF 47.5 billion, representing a 4.8% increase compared to the XAF 45.3 billion recorded the previous year. These results were disclosed during the 8th Railway Safety Day held in Douala, where Louis-Yves Yinda, Key Account Manager in the Communications Department, highlighted the importance of freight, which now accounts for 94% of the company’s total revenue.

Camrail transported an impressive 1.57 million tonnes of goods on a network spanning 1,010 km and 38 stations, with a key 884 km corridor linking Douala to Ngaoundéré. “Each day, five trains leave Douala—three for freight and two for passengers,” Yinda noted, underscoring the regularity and significance of the company’s operations.

A detailed analysis of the 2025 data shows a shift in the nature of goods transported. hydrocarbons, while still dominant with 49% of freight revenue, are now being challenged by the container segment, whose share grew from 12% to 17% within a year. This growth is driven by strengthened partnerships with customs and the Port Authority, as well as the success of the Rail Express service, which connects Douala to Ngaoundéré in just 48 hours. Thirteen express trains are currently in operation to meet growing demand.

To stand out in a fragmented and highly competitive road transport market, Camrail is focusing on a strategy centered on cost control, logistics flow forecasting, and enhanced customer service—from order placement to delivery. This proactive approach enables the company not only to strengthen its position in the Cameroonian market but also to become a key player in logistics corridors serving neighboring countries such as the Central African Republic and Chad.

Camrail’s management has no plans to slow down and is already aiming high for 2026. A particular emphasis will be placed on the introduction of new digital tools, which are currently in development and testing phases. These innovations aim to further enhance the company’s operational efficiency while improving the customer experience.

As a reminder, Camrail positions itself as a key player in Cameroon’s rail transport sector, adopting innovative strategies to remain competitive. Thanks to its financial solidity and commitment to continuous improvement, the company appears well-equipped to tackle future challenges and continue contributing to national economic development.

Amelie Yandal

Joel Hounsinou, CEO of Cameroon Railways (Camrail)