Cameroon: Supporting young people, a winning strategy for the government
In recent years, the government of Cameroon has placed the issue of youth employment at the heart of its national priorities, deploying a multi-dimensional strategy to address this crucial challenge. Faced with a dynamic demography, these structured efforts aim to transform the demographic dividend into an engine for economic growth and social stability.
One pillar of this action is the Triennial “Special Youth” Programme, launched in 2021. Backed by substantial funding, it has financed thousands of projects led by young entrepreneurs across the country.
From agribusiness to digital and service sectors, this initiative provides facilitated access to startup capital, accompanied by technical support. It materializes the will to make entrepreneurship a primary pathway to autonomy.
Concurrently, the strengthening of the National Employment Agency (ANPE) framework has been significant.
The modernization of its services, with increasing digitalization of procedures, and the regular organization of job forums in all ten regions have brought labor market supply and demand closer together. These platforms facilitate direct recruitment by private and public enterprises.
The vocational training sector has undergone a major overhaul. The creation and rehabilitation of numerous training centers, particularly in high-potential trades like renewable energy, construction, and crafts, directly meets the needs of local industries.
Public-private partnerships help align curricula with sought-after skills, thereby increasing the employability of graduates.
In the digital domain, an essential accelerator, the government has driven the creation of business incubators and tech hubs.
These ecosystems provide young innovators with access to infrastructure, mentorship, and investor networks, fostering a new generation of Cameroonian startups.
Furthermore, major structuring projects, such as the National Development Plan 2020-2030 or infrastructure projects, systematically include a social clause generating direct and indirect jobs for youth.
These concerted initiatives demonstrate sustained political awareness and will.
While challenges of inclusion and scaling up opportunities persist, the foundations laid in recent years create a framework conducive to the economic empowerment of Cameroonian youth, which is essential for the country’s future prosperity.
Eric NZEUHLONG
