5th State of Business Briefing report “Contribution of Technological Development of SMEs to the Economic Growth of Cameroon”

Authors:

Small Business and Entrepreneurship Center (Denis and Lenora Foretia Foundation)

Published: January 28, 2026

DOI: https://doi.org/10.64116/Report.2026.5thStateofBusinessBriefing

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INTRODUCTION

1.1 Government ICT Plan for SMEs in Cameroon

The Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications in Cameroon has developed a comprehensive plan to promote the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) among Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the country. This plan, as outlined on the official website of the Ministry, focuses on enhancing digital literacy, providing access to ICT infrastructure, and fostering innovation within the SME sector. By leveraging ICT tools and solutions, the Ministry aims to empower SMEs to improve their operational efficiency, expand their market reach, and drive sustainable growth. One of the key components of the Ministry’s plan is to facilitate access to affordable and reliable ICT services for SMEs across Cameroon. Through targeted initiatives and programs, the Ministry aims to bridge the digital divide and ensure that SMEs, particularly those in underserved areas, have access to essential digital technologies. Data from this same source indicates an increasing adoption of ICT services among SMEs, indicating a positive trend towards digital transformation within the business community.

In addition to promoting access to ICT infrastructure, the Ministry is actively involved in providing training and capacity-building programs for SMEs to enhance their digital skills and competencies. By organising workshops, seminars, and training sessions on ICT utilisation, the Ministry equips SMEs with the knowledge and tools necessary to leverage technology for business growth. Statistics indicate that these capacity-building initiatives have had an impact on improving SME productivity, fostering innovation, and driving competitiveness in the digital era.

The Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications in Cameroon has embarked on a multifaceted approach to support the development of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) through strategic initiatives in the telecommunications and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sectors. The sectoral strategy implemented by the Ministry aims to harness the potential of digital technologies to drive economic growth, reduce poverty, and enhance the competitiveness of SMEs. With a focus on expanding access to ICT services and infrastructure, the government has set ambitious targets to increase fixed and mobile teledensity, provide modern telecommunications means to rural areas, and offer improved digital services across the country. These initiatives align with the broader goal of leveraging the digital economy to propel sustainable development and job creation.