Discussions between the Ministry of SMEs and the Cameroon Business Association (GECAM) resulted in the development of a joint roadmap for the two institutions, for the period 2024-2026, with a view to boosting the Cameroonian entrepreneurial ecosystem.
According to the Ministry of SMEs, this framework for collaboration is based on the observation that SMEs constitute an essential link in the Cameroonian economic fabric. They represent more than 99% of the entrepreneurial fabric in Cameroon and contribute significantly to the creation of wealth and jobs, income generation, poverty reduction, and innovation.
However, Cameroonian SMEs face several challenges including: limited access to finance; increased competition; and, difficulties in accessing markets. These constraints hinder their growth and development, consequently limiting their contribution to the country’s economic transformation.
Moreover, a study conducted by the Ministry of Economy highlighted a low level of awareness among SMEs/SMIs of the State programmes dedicated to their development. It reveals that less than 40% of SMEs/SMIs are aware of the measures taken by the State to facilitate access to financing, less than 35% of the measures taken by the State to facilitate access to production factors, and less than 34% of the measures taken by the State to facilitate access to the market.
Furthermore, the conditions for access to certain programs dedicated to SMEs/SMIs by the Government’s partners are sometimes difficult to meet or out of reach, particularly due to an insufficient and uncompetitive business environment, or the weakness of their capacities and resources. Consequently, the objectives of these programs are not often achieved.
The difficulties encountered in the implementation of programs dedicated to SMEs can find solutions through the creation of synergies of actions between the different stakeholders in the Cameroonian entrepreneurial ecosystem.
In order to find sustainable solutions to the problem of SMEs and to enable GECAM to modernize its structures and its operation, in order to allow it to fully play its role and respond effectively to the concerns of its members and potential members present throughout the territory, the leaders of the organization have carried out, with the technical and financial support of the International Labor Office, the mapping of SMEs throughout the territory.
This study will undoubtedly enable GECAM and sectoral groups of SMEs to strengthen advocacy and develop innovative services to effectively support this category of companies according to their geographical location.
