Digital Cameroon Strategic Plan 2020

May 2016

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Strategies and Action Plans

Author: Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications (MINPOSTEL)

The Digital Cameroon Strategic Plan 2020 (Plan Stratégique Cameroun Numérique 2020) is a comprehensive roadmap developed by Cameroon’s Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications (MINPOSTEL) in 2016. It aims to transform Cameroon into a digital economy by 2020, aligning with the nation’s broader development goals.

🎯 Vision and objectives

The plan’s overarching vision is to position Cameroon as a digital hub in Africa by:

  • Developing broadband infrastructure: Enhancing access to high-speed internet across the country.
  • Increasing digital content production: Encouraging the creation and dissemination of local digital content.
  • Digitising public administration and businesses: Integrating ICTs into various sectors to improve efficiency and service delivery.
  • Promoting digital culture: Fostering widespread use of ICTs in society.
  • Strengthening digital trust: Ensuring cybersecurity and data protection.
  • Developing a local digital industry: Supporting the growth of domestic ICT companies.
  • Enhancing human capital and digital leadership: Building ICT skills and expertise among the population.
  • Improving governance and institutional support: Establishing effective regulatory frameworks and institutions.

🧱 Strategic pillars

The strategy is built upon three main pillars:

  1. Supply-side development: Focusing on infrastructure, services, and content creation.
  2. Demand stimulation: Encouraging ICT adoption among citizens and businesses.
  3. Regulation and governance: Establishing policies and institutions to support the digital ecosystem.

📊 Implementation and challenges

While the plan set ambitious targets, including increasing the ICT sector’s contribution to GDP from 5% to 10% by 2020, several challenges have impeded full realisation:

  • Limited infrastructure: Insufficient broadband coverage, especially in rural areas.
  • High service costs: Expensive internet and mobile services hinder widespread adoption.
  • Regulatory gaps: Need for updated laws and regulations to keep pace with technological advancements.
  • Human capital constraints: Shortage of skilled ICT professionals.

These challenges have led to calls for reevaluation and adjustment of the strategy to better align with current realities.