Between 2018 and 2025, Cameroon experienced a turning point in its relations with its diaspora, estimated at around 6 million people spread across five continents, representing nearly 15% of the total population. This community has established itself as a key player in national development, contributing significantly to the Cameroonian economy.
Never before has Cameroon opened its doors so wide to its daughters and sons abroad. In 2024, Cameroonians in the diaspora transferred $603 million, or more than 362 billion CFA francs, representing 1.1% of GDP according to the World Bank. These contributions testify to the diaspora's attachment to and willingness to participate in the country's development.
The government has taken concrete steps to transform family remittances into levers for sustainable investment. The goal is to make the diaspora a driver of national development, on par with major infrastructure and modernization projects.
Under the leadership of the President Paul Biya, Cameroon has adopted modern and attractive frameworks for investors, including the Investment Code, the Single Window for Foreign Trade Operations (GUCE), and specific support programs for the diaspora.
At the national level, the government, in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), launched a national strategy project in March 2025 to mobilize the diaspora, with the aim of mapping its skills and channeling its contributions towards structural projects.
At the local level, the Urban Community of Douala has launched the icud-diaspora platform, which allows expatriates to declare projects, offer expertise, and benefit from dedicated support (remote contact person, PPP support, provision of land or approved suppliers).
Targeted programs, such as Dias'Invest 237, a program put in place by the Ministry of External Relations select and support project leaders from the diaspora, with a focus on social impact entrepreneurship and female leadership. Support includes diagnosis, action plans, and coaching, enabling many Cameroonians based in France or elsewhere to bring their projects to fruition.
Several entrepreneurs from the diaspora have already launched SMEs in agro-processing, real estate, and healthcare, drawing on local partnerships and institutional support. Family remittances, previously the main financial lever, are giving way to productive investments: residential and commercial real estate, supermarkets, and urban infrastructure.
The transfer of technology and skills is also a major contribution. Cameroonians living abroad, who are often highly qualified, contribute to strengthening national capacities in the fields of information technology, health, engineering, and finance.
The promotion of Cameroon's image has been strengthened thanks to the actions of the diaspora. Professional and associative networks play a crucial role in attracting foreign direct investment and promoting exports, effectively complementing government efforts.
The integration of the diaspora into the National Development Strategy 2030 (SND30) recognizes its role as a lever for structured development. A law on diaspora investments, currently being drafted, will soon provide a secure legal framework and attractive tax incentives, consolidating the achievements of the 2018-2025 period.
The Cameroonian diaspora is now a key player in the country's development. Whether through investment, skills transfer, or the promotion of Cameroon internationally, its role is strategic.
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