CEPI's Programs
1. Initiative Travaillons ensemble
In Cameroon, more than 50% of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) fail within their first five years due to a lack of skills and training. The CEPI "Working" initiative offers comprehensive training tailored to the Cameroonian context, focusing on:
Accounting: Understanding financial statements and cash flow management.
Marketing: Digital and frugal marketing strategies suitable for SMEs.
Operations: Effective management practices to streamline processes.
Sales: Techniques for effective customer engagement and sales growth.
This program aims to empower 3,000 entrepreneurs not only to survive but also to thrive in a competitive market. With SMEs contributing over 33% of Cameroon's GDP, it is essential to improve their operational efficiency to advance free-market ideals and economic development.
2. Allied Women for Property Rights (WAPROR)
Women's property rights in Cameroon remain severely limited despite legislative frameworks aimed at promoting gender equality. The 1974 Land Tenure Ordinance and Decree No. 76/165 (1976), amended by Decree 2005/481, legally support women's land ownership rights. However, customary practices often undermine these laws, with women owning only 2% of the land while producing 80% of the country's food. This disparity highlights the urgent need for legal reforms and community awareness to strengthen women's economic empowerment in Cameroon. This program enables women to acquire knowledge about their legal rights and the procedures for declaring land ownership.
3. Trade for You
This program will aim to support the implementation of regional and international trade agreements and help local farmers, especially women, to export to other markets. Our evidence-based database and community outreach will ensure measurable impacts for all Cameroonians. This program will teach basic business skills and ensure that at least 50 women entrepreneurs are registered and enhanced through hands-on and verifiable training in accounting principles, digital marketing, branding, sourcing, and market research.
4. Green Agriculture
This program aims to educate, raise awareness, and inform farmers about modern agricultural techniques, while equipping them with the necessary skills to market their products to buyers at all levels. The project emphasizes capacity building through training workshops, enabling farmers to adopt best practices in resource management. Additionally, we facilitate partnerships among stakeholders to promote policy advocacy for agricultural development. By fostering a community of practice, we aim to create resilient agricultural systems that support local economies and improve livelihoods across the region.
5. AI Academy
The "AI Academy" initiative aims to empower civil society in Cameroon by offering comprehensive training focused on artificial intelligence. Our program emphasizes building the capacities of civil society organizations, equipping them with the knowledge needed to effectively influence AI-related policies. We conduct workshops covering the fundamental principles of AI, ethical governance, and practical applications, thereby fostering a collaborative environment among participants. Additionally, we are committed to creating a network for emerging coders, encouraging innovation and collaboration among the next generation of technology leaders. This initiative not only enhances local expertise but also ensures that AI development aligns with the values and needs of the community.
6. Climate Financing
The country currently needs around 60 billion USD to tackle climate change, but only 390 million USD has been mobilized, of which 2.6% comes from the private sector. This program encourages companies to invest in green projects, particularly in the fields of renewable energy and sustainable agriculture. In 2022, Cameroon has been declared eligible for funding from the Green Climate Fund, which could strengthen its adaptation and mitigation capacities. This program aims to facilitate the inclusion of the private sector in the financing of adaptation to climate change.