Developing tech ecosystem: Experts x-rays opportunities, challenges, prospects in Cameroon, Burundi.

Placed under the theme: “Stimulating the tech sector in Burundi and Cameroon: Opportunities, challenges and prospects”, the webinar brought together participants including entrepreneurs, researchers, policy analysts, and students interested in the development of the technology sector in Africa.

The session explored the current state of the technological ecosystem in both countries and identified policy reforms and practical solutions that could foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital transformation.

Moderated by CEPI National Coordinator and Research Analyst, Haiwang Djamo, it had as panelists the Co-founder and Director of Operations of the Free Tech Institute, Barakana Guy; the Co-founder and Chief Information Officer of the Free Tech Institute, Advaxe Ndayisenga; and CEPI Founder and Executive Director, Henri Kouam.

In his preliminary statement, Haiwang Djamo said the technology sector has become a major driver of competitiveness, job creation, and economic inclusion. 

He, however, noted that whether in Cameroon or Burundi, the potential of the tech sector remains largely underexploited due to structural constraints such as limited access to digital infrastructure, financing, and adequate policy frameworks.

During the discussions that ensued, the panelists reflected on key issues affecting the development of the tech ecosystem in both countries, highlighting institutional and regulatory challenges, such as weak coordination of digital policies, the absence of clear legal frameworks for innovation, and limited involvement of young entrepreneurs in policy-making processes. 

In the case of Cameroon, CEPI Founder pointed out that while several digital regulations exist though implementation and policy follow-up remain weak unlike in Burundi where the tech sector is still emerging with the absence of a comprehensive legal and institutional framework, which still poses significant challenges.

Kouam also emphasized that the digital economy presents significant opportunities in the context of the African Continental Free Trade Area, AfCFTA. 

He sounded that the emerging AfCFTA Protocol on Digital Trade could play a key role in expanding digital markets across Africa by facilitating cross-border e-commerce, harmonizing digital regulations, and promoting innovation-driven trade. 

Kouam reiterated that African countries like Cameroon and Burundi must strengthen their digital ecosystems in order to fully leverage continental opportunities.

Taking interest in entrepreneurship and innovation within the tech ecosystem, Barakana Guy, affirmed that despite the presence of talent, hubs, and entrepreneurial initiatives, access to financing remains one of the main obstacles for startups.

He noted that investors often have limited understanding of the digital economy, while entrepreneurs struggle to access incubators, mentorship, and structured support systems. 

Barakana also identified infrastructure challenges, particularly limited electricity access and weak internet connectivity as barriers to technological development.

While these technologies have significantly improved financial inclusion, he affirmed that more efforts are needed to transform their widespread usage into local innovation and scalable digital businesses capable of creating economic value.

Concerning the issue of informality in the digital economy, which remains significant in both countries, Advaxe Ndayisenga suggested the need for governments to adopt progressive and flexible approaches to formalization, such as simplifying procedures, providing incentives for startups, and improving digital literacy among entrepreneurs.

He also emphasized the importance of strengthening collaboration between policymakers, entrepreneurs, and civil society organizations to unlock the full potential of the technology sector in Cameroon and Burundi.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3913 of Friday September 18, 2026