Tourism Sector Seeks Facelift

The need to know the exact number of tourists visiting Cameroon, ensuring their security, income generation, among others, according to the Littoral Regional Delegate of Tourism and Leisure, Gerôme Ngah Obiaga account for the tracking down and closing of clandestine operators plaguing this sector. Complemented by two controllers from the Ministry, a mixed commission made up of regional controllers and the Forces of Law and Order toured the city of Douala for the last part of the exercise. Though, this had been preceded by a radio, TV and newspaper awareness campaign for owner or promoters of such structures to regularise their business units.

Placing the Ministry's action in context, the head of the Commission, Denis Ebong Ebong explained that the operation targeted mostly business services that offer lodging facilities like motels and hotels. Following a list of over 150 shortlisted business units in Douala and more than 20 in the Moungo, their visit had two main objectives. The first concerned facilities that were already operational, to check the authorisation documents; while the second motive, which applied to construction sites to harbour leisure facilities, was to check the respect of internal norms governing this sector.

The absence of any of the above recommendations, met with a financial sanction. In case where the business operated illegally, the fine was up to FCFA two million francs. As for non-authorised construction sites, the amount was calculated by multiplying each square metre by FCFA 1000 per the entire surface area, added Musonge George, Commission member. Friday October 19 saw the shutting down of eight structures.