(Business in Cameroon) - The Far North, which became the breeding ground of Boko Haram for some years, is seeing its economy progressively pick up and accelerate. As proof, according to recent statistics revealed by Customs in the northern region of Cameroon, the objectives of revenue collection for the first quarter 2017 have been achieved at more than 108%.

Indeed, the coffers of this customs district have been increased to the tune of FCfa 1.29 billion, against initial projections of FCfa 950 million. According to Jean-Marie Wetondieu, director of this customs district, this performance is due to the progressive reopening of borders with Nigeria, a decision made by the Cameroonian authorities at the end of 2016.

As a reminder, as a result of the atrocities of the Nigerian Islamic sect Boko Haram, which paralysed economic activity in this part of the country for more than 3 years, several customs posts were destroyed or deserted due to the insecurity. Out of 600 customs agents on duty in this part of the country previously, there were officially only 260 at the beginning of the year 2016.

BRM