Cameroon's Ministry of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises, Social Economy and Handicrafts (MINPMEESA) is working toward effective recognition of a simplified legal status for individual entrepreneurs under an existing regional framework designed to facilitate business formalization. Minister Achille Bassilekin III reaffirmed the government's commitment during events marking the 33rd anniversary of the Organization for the Harmonization of Business Law in Africa (OHADA) in Yaoundé on October 15.
In a statement published on social media, the ministry said it was working toward recognition of the status to strengthen legal protection for economic operators, acknowledge their contribution to wealth creation, and improve conditions for people working in the informal economy.
OHADA, in a separate statement published on October 20, highlighted the need for coordinated action to make the status operational and effective in Cameroon. The discussions brought together Bassilekin III, OHADA Permanent Secretary Mayatta Ndiaye Mbaye, and technical and financial partners.
The initiative is intended to support the formalization of economic activities and create a more accessible legal environment for small businesses.
A Legal Framework Established in 2011
The statut de l'entreprenant was introduced under OHADA's Uniform Act on General Commercial Law, adopted on December 15, 2010, and effective since May 15, 2011. It provides a simplified legal framework for individuals engaged in commercial, agricultural, artisanal, and other eligible professional activities.
Under the framework, qualifying entrepreneurs can declare their activities free of charge without undergoing standard registration in the Trade and Personal Property Credit Register (RCCM). They receive a declaration number for use on professional documents.
The legislation also allows OHADA member states to introduce tax and social security incentives. Entrepreneurs must comply with applicable revenue thresholds to retain the simplified status.
Mercy Fosoh