Transport as an Impediment to an Economically Endowed Region: The Case of Ekondo – Titi Sub Division of Cameroon

Abstract

Ekondo - Titi which has been described as the economic nerve centre of Ndian Division exhibits a plethora of growth potentials which make it an economically endowed town. Viable as this area may seem, it has been difficult to convert such viability to economic development. This is largely due to the fact that the area is poorly developed in terms of road and maritime transport. This paper examines the problems of road and water transport in Ekondo - Titi Sub-Division of Cameroon with a close look at the characteristics of the water and road transport modes. This paper also identifies the operational deficiencies that prevent transport from fulfilling its role in the development of the Sub-Division. Using a combination of field observations, interviews and group discussion with the different economic operators, it was observed that the prices of basic commodities such as building materials have increased significantly due to the high cost of transportation to the area. This has therefore slowed down the economic take - off of the Sub-Division for most parts of the year. The study presents proposals for appropriate remedial action both within the context of transport between this region and other areas of the South West Region and Cameroon in general.