Cameroon is intensifying its digital transformation efforts. A presidential decree signed on March 6, 2026, authorizes the Minister of Economy to conclude a FCFA 108 billion financing agreement with Eximbank China. This loan aims to finance Phase IV of the national fiber optic transmission network extension project, a crucial initiative for modernizing the country's digital infrastructure.
Decree No. 2026/084 empowers the Minister of Economy, Planning, and Regional Development to sign the agreement with Eximbank China for 1.35 billion yuan. The primary objective is to improve digital connectivity in various regions of Cameroon by increasing data transmission capacity and facilitating access to high-speed internet.
Cameroonian authorities emphasize that this project is part of a comprehensive policy of technological modernization. They anticipate that this extension will improve digital services, support the digital economy, and strengthen territorial integration. Improved connectivity is seen as a catalyst for innovation, e-commerce, and digital public services.
The Cameroonian government hopes that this project will encourage the establishment of new technology companies and improve access to digital services in poorly connected areas. The expansion of the fiber optic network is considered a major lever for digital development in Cameroon. Fiber optic internet offers speeds approximately 20 times faster than regular cable, reaching 1 Gbps, with equal download and upload speeds, facilitating file sharing and remote work.
However, despite significant investments in fiber optics in Cameroon, challenges persist. In September 2025, the Telecommunications Regulatory Agency (ART) noted that the fiber optic infrastructure remains largely underutilized, while consumers complain about declining service quality. Camtel, the historical operator holding a monopoly on fiber optics, faces financial difficulties, limiting its capacity to develop and maintain the network. Cameroon's digital transformation is also supported by initiatives such as the National Digital Health Strategic Plan 2026-2030, with a budget of $51.3 million, aimed at accelerating the digitization of the healthcare system and improving access to medical services.
By participating in the World Telecommunication Development Conference (WTDC-25), Cameroon contributes to defining global priorities for digital development for the period 2026-2029, with an emphasis on universal connectivity, cybersecurity, digital skills and innovation. While the fiber optic network expansion could transform internet access in several regions, further efforts are needed to ensure efficient utilization and improved service quality.
