Gov’t says digitalization will revitalize Cameroon’s economy

By Stephen TADAHA

Prime Minister Head of Government, Chief Dr Joseph Dion Ngute said particular attention should be paid to women, persons living with disabilities, and youths so that they should not be left behind as the digitalization train embarks on a long journey.

He made the declaration on Tuesday, October 17, 2023, during the official opening ceremony of the 2023 Cameroon Digital Week that is being held at the Hilton Hotel in Yaounde under the theme “Towards a Digital Future” in the presence of top government officials, members of the Diplomatic Corps, representatives of the Civil Society and Delegates of the Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation.

“The Digital Week gives an opportunity to submerge Cameroonians and Delegates of the Commonwealth into Cameroon’s digital future. Digital transformation will revitalize our economy and employ many youths who are passionate about Digitalization” said Prime Minister Dion Ngute in his opening remark.

The 1-week event will be an occasion to examine new proposals that will boost Cameroon’s digital economy, experience sharing, and the best practices in the Information and Communication Technologies domains will be at the center stage of workshops to be organized during the event.

The Cameroon Digital Week runs till October 21, 2023.

Digitization in Cameroon faces several obstacles, including:

1. Limited Infrastructure: Inadequate internet access and poor network coverage in rural areas hinder the spread of digital services.
2. Lack of Digital Skills: Many Cameroonians lack the necessary digital skills to participate in the digital economy effectively.
3. Regulatory Challenges: Complex and sometimes outdated regulations can stifle innovation and investment in the digital sector.
4. Digital Divide: Disparities in digital access between urban and rural areas, as well as among different income groups, create a digital divide.
5. Cybersecurity Concerns: Cybersecurity threats and lack of adequate measures to protect digital systems can be a barrier to digitization in Cameroon.
6. Limited Access to Finance: Startups and entrepreneurs often struggle to secure funding for digital projects. Some finally give up and shut down their businesses.
7. Political Stability: Political instability and corruption can deter foreign investment in the digital sector. In 2017, the Cameroon government suspended the internet in the two English-speaking regions, thereby limiting their access to digital tools.
8. Language Diversity: Cameroon’s linguistic diversity can complicate the development and implementation of digital solutions.

Stakeholders have said that addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from the government, private sector, and international partners to improve infrastructure, provide digital training, update regulations, and promote cybersecurity measures.