CEPI and Free Tech Institute Propose Reforms to Scale Tech in Cameroon and Burundi

The Cameroon Economic Policy Institute (CEPI) and the Free Tech Institute have convened a strategic dialogue to address the structural barriers hindering digital growth in Cameroon and Burundi. The collaboration aims to identify specific policy reforms and practical measures necessary to transform these nations' technology sectors into engines of economic competitiveness.

During a February 27, 2026, webinar titled “Stimulating the Tech Sector in Burundi and Cameroon: Opportunities, Challenges and Prospects,” a panel of experts detailed the systemic obstacles facing local innovators. Moderated by CEPI Research Analyst and National Coordinator Haiwang Djamo, the session featured Henri Kouam, Founder and Executive Director of CEPI, alongside Free Tech Institute co-founders Barakana Guy, Director of Operations, and Advaxe Ndayisenga, CIO. The participants highlighted a shared struggle with inadequate digital infrastructure, unreliable electricity, limited internet connectivity, and a persistent lack of access to financing.

Divergent Regulatory Hurdles

While both nations face infrastructure deficits, the panel noted that their regulatory challenges differ significantly. In Cameroon, the primary obstacle is not a lack of rules, but rather the inconsistent implementation and monitoring of existing digital regulations. Conversely, Burundi faces a more fundamental gap, currently lacking a comprehensive institutional and legal framework to support and govern its emerging tech ecosystem.

These disparities complicate the effort to move beyond basic digital adoption. While mobile money has successfully increased financial inclusion across the region, experts noted a significant gap in translating this usage into the creation of scalable, locally developed businesses. This transition is essential for moving the digital economy away from informality and toward sustainable industrial growth.

The Path to Economic Transformation

Addressing these bottlenecks is critical for youth employment and broader economic transformation. The panel argued that the growth of sustainable digital products and services in Central and East Africa depends on replacing restrictive measures with simpler registration processes and targeted incentives for tech entrepreneurs.

According to Haiwang Djamo, technology has become increasingly important to economic competitiveness, job creation, and inclusion. By formalizing the sector through supportive rather than punitive policy, the two nations can better leverage their human capital to compete in a global digital economy.

Regional Integration and Next Steps

Looking forward, the participants identified the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a primary catalyst for growth. Digital trade under the AfCFTA framework is expected to open new markets for African businesses by facilitating regulatory harmonization and streamlining cross-border e-commerce.

The collaboration between CEPI and the Free Tech Institute now focuses on how these regional opportunities can be integrated into national strategies. The next phase of development will require Burundi to establish its foundational legal frameworks while Cameroon improves the enforcement of its current digital mandates to create a predictable environment for investment.