Virtually every adult Cameroonian and even non-Cameroonians express an opinion on the Head of State’s address. However, beyond the restricted and intimate circles wherein these opinions are expressed, not many persons get to know what other Cameroonians may have thought or said.

Only an insignificant number of these opinions are published either by the Press or broadcast on radio and television. In one of such opinions carried by “Le Messager” newspaper of 3 rd January 2006, Mr. Jules KEMAJOU YANZE, a Specialist in Urban Affairs, gave his impressions on the Speech, underscoring the LSP as a strategic economic endeavour:

“From the Head of State’s address, I retained some salient points amongst which is the desire to boost employment. In Cameroon today, more than 60% of Cameroonians are below 40 years and each year, several thousands join the job market….

On the other hand, especially as concerns the LSP, the Head of State mentioned issues which demand serious thought. Situated on the shoreline of the Gulf of Guinea, Cameroon should have its own oil rigs or repair facilities in the area. And the town of Limbe fulfils all the conditions. The town is quite close to both Malabo and Nigeria. It is therefore of absolute importance that Limbe and also Kribi should have a special status. The LSP could create up to 10 000 jobs….

It is important for us to note that the Americans want to reduce their dependence on petroleum from the Middle East and are seeking to diversify their sources of supply. Obviously, several American oil tankers will berth in the Gulf of Guinea…. Our decision-makers ought to ensure the rapid execution of this project in the strategic town of Limbe which shall also give us regional advantages. The delay we are registering may finally play to the advantage of Sao Tome and Principe that is also suitable to host similar facilities. If this were to happen, we would be loosing a great source of employment.”