Unleashing Potential: Why a Startup Act Matters in Cameroon

Implementing a Startup Act emerges as a beacon of hope and possibility. It represents more than just a policy initiative; it embodies a collective vision for a future where creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship drive socio-economic progress.

By Boris Esono Nwenfor

YAOUNDE, Cameroon – In the vibrant landscapes of Cameroon, where bustling markets meet burgeoning tech hubs, a quiet revolution is brewing—one that promises to transform the economic landscape through innovation and entrepreneurship. At the heart of this transformation lies the proposition of a Startup Act, which comprises a set of policies, incentives and support initiatives aimed at fostering an environment conducive to startup growth, innovation and entrepreneurship.

Although the startup ecosystem is booming, many people are still unaware of all the resources available, the differences between them, or which ones are best for them. To remedy this situation, it is necessary to create an appropriate regulatory framework for deploying these structures to help them identify useful local resources.

In this context, the Nkafu Policy Institute, a think tank of the Denis and Lenora Foretia Foundation, on July 18, 2024, in Yaounde, organized a panel discussion on “Why does a Startup Act Matter in Cameroon? The main objective of this panel discussion was to examine the urgent need to enact a startup act in Cameroon, to strengthen the startup ecosystem.

“The government needs to create a favourable environment for startups, by providing the necessary resources and guidance. Also, startups need to go through thorough assessment in terms of quality, needs and other key factors before they are provided funding,” said Issibe Jean André

To Armella Lesley Kaze, the government and stakeholders in the entrepreneurial sector need to carry out sensitization and consultations with startups and the public to ensure that the regulatory framework on startups meets their needs.

Cameroon, like many nations in Africa, grapples with the challenges of youth unemployment and economic diversification. A Startup Act could serve as a powerful tool to address these issues by fostering a supportive environment for startups and small businesses. By streamlining bureaucratic processes, providing financial incentives, and offering regulatory clarity, the act aims to lower barriers to entry and encourage entrepreneurial ventures across various sectors.

Startup Act's promise is its potential to generate sustainable employment opportunities. By nurturing startups and SMEs, which are often the engines of job creation, Cameroon can reduce youth unemployment rates and stimulate economic growth. This would not only empower individuals and communities but also contribute to overall social stability and prosperity.

Business leaders and entrepreneurs across Cameroon have expressed optimism about the potential impact of a Startup Act. "We need policies that encourage risk-taking and innovation," said Yvette Mboum, founder of a green energy startup in Yaoundé. "A Startup Act would provide the framework for us to scale our impact and create sustainable solutions for our communities."

Beyond immediate economic benefits, the Startup Act holds the potential to build a more resilient and inclusive economy in Cameroon. By empowering local entrepreneurs, fostering innovation, and attracting foreign investment, the act could pave the way for sustainable development and long-term prosperity.

In addition to creating a regulatory framework for Startups in Cameroon, startups on their part should ensure that their ideas are innovative, and have the potential to contribute to economic growth, and prosperity and curb unemployment.

“We need optimum collaboration among stakeholders in Cameroon for better decisions that favour startups. Collaboration between the government, the private sector and the public is crucial for major decisions on creating a favourable regulatory framework for startups,” said Makoudem Marienne.

As Cameroon navigates the complexities of a rapidly evolving global economy, the implementation of a Startup Act emerges as a beacon of hope and possibility. It represents more than just a policy initiative; it embodies a collective vision for a future where creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship drive socio-economic progress.