Cameroon President Paul Biya has returned to Yaounde after spending 74 days in Europe…reports Africa Daily News Desk
Cameroon President Paul Biya has returned to Yaounde after spending 74 days in Europe, ending an extended absence from the country.
Biya arrived at Yaounde-Nsimalen International Airport at 5:45 p.m. on Thursday, August 20, 2026, aboard the presidential aircraft. He was accompanied by First Lady Chantal Biya.
The presidential couple was received by Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute and Minister of State and Secretary-General of the Presidency Ferdinand Ngoh Ngoh. Supporters of the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM), along with dance groups, gathered at the airport to welcome the President. Crowds also lined the route as his motorcade travelled to the Unity Palace.
During his absence, the government maintained that Biya remained in charge of state affairs and continued to carry out official duties, including decisions on military appointments and financial agreements.
Biya, born on February 13, 1933, in Mvomeka’a in Cameroon’s South Region, is the country’s second president. He came to power on November 6, 1982, following the resignation of Ahmadou Ahidjo.
He has served as president for more than four decades and has been re-elected seven times, most recently in 2018. At 93, Biya is the world’s oldest serving head of state.
Before becoming president, Biya held several senior government positions, including Prime Minister from 1975 to 1979 and Secretary-General of the Presidency. He was sworn in as president in 1982.
Biya studied law and political science in France, earning qualifications from the University of Paris and the Institut d’Études Politiques de Paris, among other institutions.
His return to Yaounde comes shortly after celebrations over the Indomitable Lionesses’ Women’s Africa Cup of Nations victory, adding to the atmosphere of national celebration in Cameroon.
Biya’s prolonged stay in Europe had drawn attention, while his return marks the end of his 74-day absence from the country.
