IALA Heritage Lighthouse Award 2026

An ambitious restoration project

Upon receipt of the nomination by the President of the ENG Working Group 4 (Heritage), PAK initiated a major rehabilitation program for this historic landmark.
The first phase included the restoration of the masonry tower, its base, the staircase cage, and the dome housing the lantern.
Currently, PAK is in the process of acquiring a state-of-the-art marine lantern that meets IALA standards, with a minimum range of 20 nautical miles (NM).

The strengths of the Kribi Lighthouse

1. Historical legacy
   Built in 1906 by the Germans to support food exports, the lighthouse played a crucial role during the First World War (1914–1918) by guiding Allied forces safely ashore to liberate local populations.

2. Accessibility
   Located at the mouth of the Kienké River, the lighthouse can be easily reached from the beach as well as by land.

3. Education and memory
   As a true colonial-era relic, it stands near a memorial erected in February 2017, which every May 9 serves as a reminder of the tragic history of the Batanga people.

4. Maritime safety
   Standing 18 meters high and visible up to 20 NM, the lighthouse is aligned with the green entrance light at the Kienké estuary, positioned on the bell tower of Kribi’s cathedral (30 meters high).

5. Touristic appeal
   Welcoming around 10,000 visitors each year, the site is a major attraction, located near a beachside restaurant and the Hôtel du Phare, which proudly bears its name.

A national pride with an international vision

Through this nomination, the Port Authority of Kribi reaffirms its commitment to preserving and promoting Cameroon’s maritime heritage, while enhancing the international visibility of the city of Kribi.