African Builders launches new edition of direct entrepreneurial residency programme.

The 2025 edition of the annual programme, which targets young and innovative African entrepreneurs, offering them a unique opportunity for professional immersion in France, was unveiled during a press briefing, which took place at the conference hall of the Cameroon Chamber of Commerce Industry Mines and Craft, CCIMMA, in Douala.

Speaking to those present, Daniel Tala Kuate of CCIMMA said, the programme is aimed at accelerating the growth of high-potential startups and SMEs.

The residency, he noted, includes networking opportunities, skill-building workshops, and direct exposure to international markets. It is open to businesses across various sectors, including technology, agriculture, education, and health.

Each year, selected participants benefit from hands-on mentorship and collaboration with French business leaders, institutions, and innovation hubs.

The programme, led annually by Bâtisseurs Africains, has continued to open international doors for young African entrepreneurs. 

Designed as a professional immersion opportunity in France, the programme connects innovators with business ecosystems in Nouvelle-Aquitaine through mentoring, training, and networking.

In Cameroon, the selection process is overseen by a consortium of stakeholders from public institutions, the private sector, and civil society. 

The Cameroon Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Crafts, CCIMA, leads the call for applications and coordination, while renowned firm, Forvis Mazars, handles the pre-selection and evaluation of candidate’s files.

The final national selection panel, chaired by the CCIMA President, includes representatives from the French Consulate General in Douala, the French Institute of Cameroon, Forvis Mazars, Douala City Council and the Bâtisseurs Africains network.

Forvis Mazars also ensures the technical and administrative coordination of jury results. Meanwhile, the Club des Bâtisseurs plays an observer role throughout the process, ensuring transparency and stakeholder management.

Since its creation in 2011, over 60 entrepreneurs have benefited from the programme, often experiencing transformative growth in both skills and exposure. 

One shining example is Manuela Njankouo, a 2019 laureate and founder of La Cuisine de Nounou, a Cameroonian food innovation brand. Formerly a software engineer in banking, Njankouo transitioned into agribusiness, aiming to modernise baby food using local products. 

Her work has earned national recognition for its nutritional, social, and economic impact—particularly in supporting mothers and promoting locally sourced foods. Njankouo’s success story has since then inspired other young people to engage into entrepreneurial ventures despite the difficult terrain.  

As applications for the 2025 edition continue, the programme reinforces its goal: to elevate African entrepreneurs by merging local innovation with international experience. 

Entrepreneurs interested in applying have been encouraged to visit the official Bâtisseurs Africains website or their social media channels for detailed application guidelines.

The initiative reflects Bâtisseurs Africains' mission of strengthening African entrepreneurship through global partnerships and practical learning experiences.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3514 of Friday July 25, 2025