Cameroon is at a pivotal moment in its administrative modernization, where digitalization is becoming an economic and political necessity. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into public services is seen as a way to improve efficiency, transparency, and the quality of services offered to citizens.
Several initiatives demonstrate this desire for transformation. National consultations on AI (CONIA) were held in 2024 and 2025, and the E-Gov'A trade fair, scheduled for May 2026 in Yaoundé, will highlight the theme of "AI and e-governance". The Minister of Public Service and Administrative Reform, Joseph Le, stressed the importance of simplifying and dematerializing the administration to turn the page on archaic practices.
The Cameroonian government is accelerating the pace with financial support from South Korea, investing 4.6 billion FCFA in training centers dedicated to digital skills within ENAM, SUP'PTIC, and ISMP. The goal is to train agents capable of managing the digital transition and integrating AI into their functions.
Concrete reforms are already underway, such as the e-visa platform, which has processed hundreds of thousands of applications, reducing delays and improving border traceability. The dematerialization of customs procedures via a single window also helps to limit queues, secure public revenue, and reduce corruption. The National Social Insurance Fund is experimenting with AI for biometric recognition and automated pension processing, thereby strengthening data reliability and the fight against fraud.
During a national workshop in February 2026, authorities stressed the need for responsible AI, capable of protecting citizens while improving administrative performance. AI should be a tool for traceability and transparency to modernize public services. The challenge for Cameroon is to succeed in its digital transformation in order to build an efficient and transparent State 4.0.
The E-Gov'A event, to be held from May 14 to 16, 2026, in Yaoundé, is an African summit on e-governance and AI. It aims to promote more efficient public services in a cashless and paperless Africa, bringing together decision-makers, experts and digital players around concrete solutions.
Despite this progress, challenges remain, particularly with regard to the protection of personal data, system security and algorithmic bias. Cameroon must strike a balance between innovation and respect for the rule of law if AI is to become a true catalyst for progress for society.
The digital transformation of the State is essential to meet the demands of an economy and a society guided by data and artificial intelligence.
