Authorities in Cameroon’s North-West Region have announced sweeping traffic restrictions and heightened security arrangements ahead of the official visit of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV to the city of Bamenda on Thursday, April 16, 2026.
The measures were detailed by Wilson Elong Njumenjikang, Regional Delegate for National Security, during a public announcement delivered on April 10, 2026, at the Regional Delegation at Upstation in Bamenda.
Addressing the population, he described the forthcoming visit as a landmark moment for the region, urging residents to cooperate fully with security directives.
According to him, movement along the main route linking Bamenda Airport to Big Mankon Cathedral will be heavily affected, with diversions introduced to manage the expected influx of people and vehicles.
The regional police boss explained that traffic from surrounding areas, including Bafut, Bali, Mbengwi Road, Nkwen, and Up-Station, will be redirected through alternative roads across the city as part of a coordinated effort to reduce congestion and secure the Pope’s itinerary.
Security measures, according to him, will intensify in the hours leading up to the Pope’s arrival, with the entire airport-to-cathedral stretch set to close two hours before the event.
Authorities have also banned the parking of trucks, trailers, and other vehicles along the route while restricting motorbike movement strictly to neighbourhoods. These steps, officials say, are necessary to ensure both safety and order during the visit.
Arrangements have been made to manage the large crowds expected to attend. Adding that designated parking zones will be reserved for permit holders, while shuttle buses will transport other members of the public from key points such as Hospital Roundabout to access points closer to the venues. He equally indicated that several crossing points across the city have also been identified to facilitate pedestrian movement and ease pressure on major roads.
Following the ceremony at the cathedral, traffic will operate in a one-way system back towards the airport, with vehicles moving in controlled phases before the papal motorcade proceeds. Noting that residents gathering along the route have been urged to remain calm and orderly throughout.
The police commissioner called on the people of Bamenda to demonstrate their “civic-mindedness, patriotism, and understanding," stressing that the success of the visit depends largely on public cooperation. The event is expected to draw thousands of faithful and visitors, placing the city at the center of national and international attention.
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