Innovations in 2026 Finance Law: Gov’t reaffirms resolve to combat social exclusion of persons with disabilities.

The session, organised in Yaounde, was placed under the theme: “2026 Finance Law: Innovations for a more inclusive society”. The Social Affairs Minister, who doubles as Chairperson of the committee, chaired the session organised on August 12.

The session focused on measures such as significant tax relief and customs benefits on adapted equipment included in the 2026 Finance Law to support people with disabilities in Cameroon. 

It was attended by statutory members of CONRHA and invited personalities, who examined the various implementation and monitoring tools, as well as support measures for people with disabilities contained in the Finance Law.

In her address, the minister reaffirmed the resolve of government to combat social exclusion and advocate the participation of all in national development effort. 

Noting that over 3.4 million people are living with disabilities in Cameroon, she said they face challenges of access to education, limited access to healthcare, and accessible transport infrastructure. 

“Remarkably, when it comes to public sector employment, out of nearly 360,000 civil servants in 2026, only 5.8 per cent are people with disabilities. Yet Cameroon has a law on the protection and promotion of people with disabilities, the aim of which is to enable this target group to find work and forge social ties in order to regain personal and professional independence and self-confidence,” the minister explained, noting that these pose as challenges for all stakeholders.

However, she said the 2026 Finance Law has introduced some concrete measures to support people with disabilities in the public sector.

She insisted that the 2026 Finance Law stands as a test of the collective will to translate government’s commitment to people with disabilities into concrete action.

“By introducing specific tax measures to support the empowerment of, and improve the daily lives of, people with disabilities who hold a national disability card, it marks a significant development and demonstrates that disability is firmly entering the State’s sphere of concern,” she affirmed. 

Prior to the enactment of the 2026 Finance Law, the member of government said other measures had already been taken and will continue to be taken, to establish a more effective policy for the socio-economic reintegration of targeted persons.

Importance of session

Minister Nguene then told those present that the current session will contribute to raising awareness and building the capacity of CONRAD’s members and invited guests regarding the innovations of the 2026 Finance Law, in view of ensuring the inclusive socio-economic reintegration of people with disabilities. 

“It will also foster synergies through strengthened partnerships between public administrations, civil society organisations and our technical and financial partners. The vision is to leave no one behind,” she added. 

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3881 of Monday August 17, 2026