By Boris Esono Nwenfor
YAOUNDE, PAV – The Cameroon Economic Policy Institute (CEPI) of the Henri Kouam Foundation organised a capacity-building training aimed at strengthening women entrepreneurship in Cameroon, against the backdrop of persistent gender-based barriers in the business environment. The training on January 2, 2026, which was held under the theme “Women Entrepreneurship and Free Trade,” brought together women operating in both the formal and informal sectors for a practical and policy-oriented exchange.
The initiative comes at a time when women entrepreneurs continue to face significant obstacles, including cultural norms that confine women largely to domestic roles, limited access to finance due to a lack of collateral, and weak institutional support systems. These challenges often deepen discrimination and gender bias, even though women lead about 23 per cent of manufacturing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Cameroon.
Bridging the Informal–Formal Divide
One of the key concerns addressed during the training was the persistent informality of women-led businesses. Although many women demonstrate strong entrepreneurial potential, a large number remain outside the formal economy, limiting their access to markets, finance and growth opportunities.
CEPI experts emphasised that formalisation is not merely an administrative requirement but a strategic step toward sustainability and expansion. Participants were guided on how to transition from informal activities to registered businesses, while understanding the benefits attached to legal recognition.
The training focused heavily on hands-on learning, equipping participants with tools they could immediately apply in their businesses. Sessions covered how to conduct market research at no cost, identify first customers, and keep basic financial records.
Women were provided with practical manuals and key action points designed to help them record sales and expenses, analyse customer needs and develop simple marketing plans. The approach was deliberately adapted to local realities, ensuring that even entrepreneurs without laptops or advanced digital tools could follow and implement the lessons.
Step-by-Step Guide to Business Registration
CEPI Founder Henri Kouam led a detailed session on business registration procedures in Cameroon. He walked participants through the required documents, registration steps and key online platforms where entrepreneurs can access reliable information.
Christelle Guegne, founder of a local tea company – Phyto Assure – illustrated how to conduct market research, find local buyers and register to trade shows across Yaoundé and Douala. Meanwhile, Kuitchou Mirande epse Dongmo – the founder of an Eco-friendly cooker made from base materials outlined how to manage resources, time and people.
CEPI’s free market fellows used the opportunity to introduce participants to export-oriented thinking. They provided a snapshot of export and import procedures and guided women on how to access relevant information through the Chambers of Commerce and the Ministry of Commerce. The sessions encouraged women to look beyond local markets and begin preparing their products to meet regional and international standards.
Taxes, Digitisation and Policy Advocacy
During interactive discussions, participants expressed concern over burdensome tax procedures and the lack of clarity in tax payments. Many called for simplified systems that allow payments through mobile money or dedicated applications.
In response, Kouam noted that CEPI successfully advocated for the suspension of value-added tax for vital products and the suspension of tax payments for newly registered businesses for a period of three years. However, Mme. Christelle – founder of Phyto Assure – stated that women may not be easily admitted to trade shows unless they formalise their activities.
The trainers agreed that it should be simpler to pay taxes for entrepreneurs and their employees, and registering them to make social security payments should be fully digitised with automated know-your-customer procedures like video calls or recordings.
The training concluded with discussions on access to finance and compliance with international norms. Kouam outlined banking requirements for loans and urged women to gradually improve product standards in preparation for export markets. Through research, advocacy and training, CEPI of the Henri Kouam Foundation continues to promote entrepreneurship and free market ideals, positioning women as key drivers of Cameroon’s economic transformation.
