Cameroon: Focus on innovative mechanisms to eradicate corruption and modernise governance
Promoting good governance and modernizing the state are central pillars of the new presidential term in Cameroon. Faced with the challenges of corruption and financial opacity seen as major obstacles to development the government has, in recent years, established an array of institutional and legal mechanisms. Their effectiveness and full implementation remain at the heart of public expectations.
The most visible initiative is “Operation Sparrowhawk” (Opération Épervier), overseen by the Supreme Court.
Although its pace has varied, it remains the judicial symbol of the fight against corruption among senior officials and embezzlers of public funds. Its actions are often noted for high-profile arrests.
On the preventive and transparency front, several key institutions have been strengthened.
The Court of Accounts (Cour des Comptes) has seen its role expanded in auditing public finances and monitoring public and semi-public organizations. Its reports, which highlight irregularities, are essential for ex-post accountability.
The National Anti-Corruption Commission (CONAC), created in 2006, plays a role in awareness-raising, receiving reports, and formulating policy recommendations.
A promising mechanism is the mandatory asset declaration for public officials, a measure designed to track illicit enrichment.
Its effectiveness, however, depends on rigorous verification and public disclosure of these declarations.
Modernization is also being driven by digitalization. The Integrated Financial Management Information System (SIGIF) and the online public procurement platform (Cameroon Online E-Procurement System – COLEPS) aim to reduce direct contact and opportunities for corruption in public spending. These technological tools, if fully deployed, can establish beneficial traceability.
Cameroon has established a relatively comprehensive institutional framework. The political will to make audit findings public, guarantee the independence of oversight bodies, and protect whistleblowers will be the true test of the credibility of this fight—a sine qua non for restoring trust and ensuring the efficient allocation of national resources.
Eric Nzeuhlong
