Mobile network operator MTN Cameroon and the Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations (CDEC) formalized a major agreement on February 24, 2026, regarding the management of security deposits paid by certain subscribers and partners. The signing of this agreement was immediately followed by an initial transfer of funds, exceeding 400 million FCFA, marking a significant step in formalizing the sector's financial practices.
These security deposits, traditionally required by MTN when subscribing to certain contracts, serve as protection against unpaid bills or the non-return of equipment. Unlike a service payment, this is a sum returned at the end of the contract, subject to possible deductions for debts or non-compliance with the conditions.
This initiative falls within a precise legal framework, in particular law n°2008/003 of April 14, 2008 governing deposits and consignments, as well as decree n°2023/08500/PM of December 1, 2023, which details the procedures for transferring funds to the CDEC. According to the CDEC, this reform aims to secure the conservation of sums owed to third parties and to harmonize their management by centralizing them with the institution.
The economic interest of this approach lies in the clear distinction between operating income and guarantee funds. By transferring the latter to the CDEC, they are not considered as sustainable income, since they must be returned. The operation improves traceability, reduces accounting ambiguities and secures refunds, an often sensitive aspect.
While the first transfer provides a glimpse of the financial importance of these guarantees in the telecommunications sector, it represents only a fraction of the total collected by MTN. The signed agreement aims to establish clear procedures for the collection, deposit and return of guarantees, thus ensuring better clarity for consumers and a robust framework for managing unpaid debts for MTN.
Beyond the financial aspect, this operation has an institutional scope. It reinforces the CDEC's role as a trusted third party in the management of financial flows from private companies. If other sectors adopt this practice, it could lead to increased formalization of consignments, with strengthened requirements for monitoring, transparency and financial discipline.
MTN is sending a strong signal: the deposit and consignment reform is moving from the stage of texts to reality, with significant amounts at stake. The CDEC, created in 2008, aims to become a key player in financing development in Cameroon, by mobilizing and securing resources for strategic projects.
