Startups Urged to Focus on Long-Term Impact

The Minister of Posts and Telecommunications, Minette Libom Li Likeng, has called on startups participating in the 4th edition of the Cameroon ICT Innovation Week to focus on creating long-term, contextual impact within the national digital ecosystem.

This call was made during the launching ceremony of the event, held on Monday, June 23, 2025, at the Cameroon Digital Innovation Centre (CDIC), under the theme: “Mobilizing Artificial Intelligence for an Ambitious Digital Transformation that Meets the Needs of our Country Cameroon.”

The Minister emphasized the importance of innovative solutions that respond to the needs of Cameroon society, highlighting the broader vision of promoting job creation, fostering local tech champions, and offering concrete solutions to societal challenges. She urged participants to strive for more than just short-term gains, encouraging them to become lasting actors within the national digital ecosystem and play a driving role in its development.

The competition has seen an impressive response, with over 400 projects deposited and 16 shortlisted to compete for the top prizes. The President of the Scientific Committee, Mr. Abega Moussa, highlighted the uniqueness of this edition, noting the remarkable regional diversity among participants, who come from various cities including Buea, Bamenda, Douala, Bafoussam, Garoua, Yaounde, and Sangmelima.

The committee has also ensured a diverse range of participants, including three teams made up of only girls, six students, five professionals in active service, and five legalized startups. This diversity illustrates the inclusive potential and dynamism of Cameroon's digital ecosystem. The jury panel, comprising experts such as Mr. NZOMETIAH Nervis TSETSOP, the winner of the second edition, is expected to bring high-level expertise to the competition.

As participants journey through the three main stages of the competition – the boot camp, presentation before the grand jury, and prize award ceremony – the Minister encouraged them to make maximum use of this period to master their presentations and avoid misjudging an excellent product due to poor presentation. The boot camp and coaching sessions are designed to be intensive, providing participants with valuable opportunities for growth and exchange.

The 4th edition of the competition, organized from the 28 May to 27 June 2025, and placed under the Distinguished Patronage of the President of the Republic, will culminate in a prize award ceremony and the award of the Special Prize of the President of the Republic to the best project of the year. This year, a special touch has been added to award the best female project, thereby aiming to bridge the gender digital divide in the sector.

As the competition unfolds, expectations are high, and the Minister's call to action serves as a reminder of the importance of creating sustainable, impactful solutions that will contribute to the growth and development of Cameroon's digital ecosystem. With the right support and guidance, these innovative projects have the potential to drive positive change and shape the future of the country's digital landscape.