The population turned out en masse to receive the Head of State at the Douala International Airport.

Any newcomer or even a casual observer in Douala was very aware that an august guest was expected. Euphoria among residents of the economic metropolis rose to peak with the arrival of the Presidential couple, Paul and Chantal Biya, at about 12:25pm yesterday, November 14, 2013.

Immediately the presidential aircraft touched down on the tarmac of the Douala International Airport, songs and shouts of ecstasy rose over the airport and from streets of surrounding quarters by school children and party militants who colonised the area as early as 6 am yesterday. In a strictly protocol tradition, other State authorities, local administration, religious and traditional dignitaries each received a warm handshake from the Presidential couple.

Following the series of official courtesies were military honours that ensued after the singing of the National Anthem. Before making his way into the Presidential Lounge at the airport, the President held a brief moment of discussion with Roving Ambassador, Roger Milla. The august couple then left for the Presidential residence in Bonanjo.

The reception was throughout spiced with music and dancing from cultural associations, traditional dance and animation groups.

A huge number of the population in the economic capital and its environs positioned themselves at roadsides along the highway which constitutes the itinerary of the august guest. Conspicuous during the reception at the airport were militants of the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) who were all cheers at every step made by the Head of State, also National President of the governing party.

The massive turn out at the airport of the administration and local population, as well as the gathering of the curious onlookers along street corners and junctions to catch a glimpse of the Head of State, or at least to watch the beautifully arrayed presidential motorcade as they passed, proved of the population’s expectation of relief a second bridge over the Wouri River will bring them. Still, a great number of Douala residents glued to their TV screens and radio sets at home and at workplaces keenly listening to what the Head of State would say in his official speech during the laying of the foundation stone ceremony for the second bridge over the Wouri River.. Many, if not all, wished for more infrastructural projects with the possibilities of more development and employment.  To some, the visit and the launch of construction works by the President show how close he is to them and how the development of the nation occupies a fine place in his agenda.