As part of a historic step towards the creation of a more integrated, more secure and more efficient digital ecosystem, the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications of Cameroon issued the Decision of April 4, 2025creating a National Electronic Communications Aggregation Platform (NECAP) and establish procedures allowing public payment service providers operating in Cameroon to access the said platform.
This decisive step marks a pivotal change in Cameroon’s digital transformation journey. It aims to foster interoperability and interconnectivity, strengthen cybersecurity and data protection, and streamline public access to digital services.
If you are a technology operator, digital entrepreneur, policy enthusiast or simply curious about the evolving digital landscape of Cameroon, here is what you need to know about the rationale for this strategic decision.
1. Improving interoperability between payment service providers operating in Cameroon
The goal of interoperability is at the heart of this decision. The aggregator platform acts as a central standard, seamlessly connecting various digital platforms, from financial services and e-commerce to education and social communication tools.
By mandating integration, the government is ensuring that users across Cameroon can enjoy smoother and more consistent digital experiences, regardless of service provider.
Why it’s important:
- Simplifies user access to multiple platforms;
- Encourages competition and innovation;
- Reduces technical barriers between networks.
2. Securing digital transactions and data integrity
Cybersecurity and data protection are no longer optional in today’s hyper-connected world.
The decision empowers the National Agency for Information and Communication Technologies (ANTIC) to issue certificates of conformity to public digital platforms, ensuring that they meet national cybersecurity standards.
In addition, digital platforms must be certified by the Telecommunications Regulatory Agency (ART).
What this means for users and operators:
- Safer digital environments;
- Reduced risks of fraud and data breaches;
- Increased public trust in digital services.
3. Regulatory clarity and fair competition
The ART is in charge of defining fair, transparent and non-discriminatory access rules to the aggregation platform.
This will eliminate ambiguities and create legal certainty for all digital platforms.
Benefits include:
- Level playing field for all digital service providers.
- Transparent pricing and interconnection catalogs;
- A level playing field that promotes healthy competition.
Recommended reading: Cameroon 2025: New compliance rules for digital platforms.
4. Streamlined approval and compliance process
To operate legally in Cameroon, public digital platforms must now:
- Obtain Agency approval.
- Obtain a certificate of conformity from ANTIC.
- Provide proof of these approvals when making regulatory declarations.
Impact on businesses:
- Clearer roadmaps for legal functioning;
- Predictable compliance deadlines;
- Greater credibility with consumers and partners.
5. Time-limited compliance for rapid implementation
Recognizing the urgency of digital integration, the decision grants a three-month deadline for the platform manager and operators of public digital platforms to comply.
This rapid timeline accelerates the pace of digital modernization across all sectors.
6. Strengthening national sovereignty over digital infrastructure
By designating CAMPOST as host and manager of the aggregation platform, Cameroon ensures that its critical digital infrastructure remains under national control.
The move aligns with broader trends in digital sovereignty globally, where countries are taking proactive steps to safeguard their technological futures.
Final Thoughts
THE Decision of April 4, 2025 is more than a regulatory adjustment: it is a bold step towards a smarter, safer and more connected Cameroon. For digital service providers, this presents new growth opportunities within a structured and secure framework.
For consumers, this promises a future of seamless digital interaction.
As Cameroon continues its journey to becoming a leading digital hub in Central Africa, this decision underlines the government’s commitment to building an inclusive and resilient digital economy.
Stay informed, stay compliant and embrace the future of digital Cameroon.
