"If Cameroon Develops Menchum Falls Hydro-Electric Power Plant, it will provide enough electricity to power Northwest /Southwest region, and western regions of Cameroon". Elias Kari tasks government

Elias Kari writes from Texas — A hydroelectric power plant at Menchum Fall (planned 72 MW) would significantly boost the Northwest Region of Cameroon's revenue by providing stable, affordable, and sustainable energy, fostering local industrialization, enabling agro-processing, reducing reliance on costly diesel, and attracting investment to the region's agricultural and mineral sectors. The Menchum Falls in Cameroon's Northwest region has hydroelectric potential, with feasibility studies and development plans mostly focusing on a rang of 72 MW to 450 MW.

The Menchum Falls hydroelectric project feasibility and design studies have been conducted by several entities since 2012, primarily involving CIMA International (Canada), ARQ Engineering (South Africa), and Joule Africa. The project is designed for a ~72 MW capacity, with further developmental interest involving Chinese partners. Feasibility Studies & Design: CIMA International and ARQ Engineering were contracted in 2015 to conduct studies for the 72 MW dam.

Previous Studies: Joule Africa was involved in initial project developments around 2012. Development Partners: The project has seen interest from Chinese firms, including those involved in the Lom Pangar dam (CEW), to potentially construct the plant. The Menchum Falls are roughly 20 km south of Wum and 30 km north of Bafut.

The development aims to provide clean, reliable energy to the region, which has faced challenges with electricity access. The Ministry of Water and Energy (MINEE) is primarily responsible for the development and construction of hydroelectric power plants in Cameroon, directing national energy policy and major infrastructure projects. Key projects like the Nachtigal and Kikot-Mbebe dams are supported by the Ministry of Economy, Planning and Regional Development (MINEPAT).

Ministry of Water and Energy (MINEE): Oversees the energy sector, sets strategy, and manages the implementation of major hydro projects. Electricity Development Corporation (EDC): A public company under government supervision that manages state assets and promotes the development of hydropower infrastructure.

Ministry of Economy, Planning and Regional Development (MINEPAT): Handles national planning and financing,, working alongside MINEE on major infrastructure, including the Nachtigal and Kikot-Mbebe dams. Creation:

A reliable power supply will enable the establishment of small-scale industries and manufacturing, creating jobs and increasing the tax base.

Agricultural Value Addition: Increased electricity allows for the development of agro-processing units (e.g., in coffee, cocoa, and maize), raising the value of local produce and increasing export revenue.

Reduced Energy Costs: Replacing expensive fossil fuel generators with hydroelectric power (expected to reduce costs from ~€0.30 per kW to ~€0.06 per kW) lowers operational costs for businesses, making them more competitive and profitable. Enhanced Commercial Activity: Stable power supports small businesses, clinics, and educational facilities, driving overall economic activity and increasing local income-generating capacity. Surroundings: The falls are situated in a deep, green, and forested gorge, known for its,, dramatic, and powerful, cascading, water.

Nearby Towns: The closest major, towns are Wum to the north and Bafut to the south. Area Features: The area is a, known site for, sand mining in the river and offers,, panoramic, viewpoints, though maintenance of the, site, can vary. Visitors often travel from Bamenda, which is a roughly 3-hour, drive, on a, difficult, road to reach the falls. The location is sometimes referred to as part of the rural landscape of the Fungom Subdivision.