Cameroon's Ministry of External Relations Partners with Ivorian Company for E-Visa Service

with the possibility of renewal. This collaboration entails the construction of a state-of-the-art data center in Yaoundé, marking a pivotal step towards enhancing consular services and digital transformation in the country.

The groundbreaking ceremony for the Digital Transformation Center of the Ministry of External Relations (Minrex) took place on April 16th in Yaoundé, signaling the commencement of this ambitious project. Patrice Koe Jr., Director of Communication, Documentation, and Diplomatic Archives at Minrex, emphasized the significance of this initiative, highlighting its role in standardizing and securing consular services across Cameroon.

The construction of the data center represents a key component of the broader project aimed at modernizing consular services, including the implementation of a robust computer system and the establishment of digital platforms. Despite initial criticisms regarding technical glitches, Minrex reports positive outcomes from the e-visa platform, which has been operational since 2023.

According to Koe Jr., the e-visa platform has facilitated the entry of 157,688 individuals into Cameroon between April 30, 2023, and March 30, 2024. This achievement underscores the effectiveness of digital solutions in streamlining immigration processes and promoting tourism and investment in the country.

The partnership with Impact Palmarès R&D SAS, signed in 2022, has already yielded tangible results in advancing the digitalization agenda. These include the establishment of a comprehensive platform for managing consular services, the deployment of equipment at diplomatic and consular posts, and the enhancement of border security measures.

While the financial details of the partnership have not been disclosed by the government, the collaboration signifies a significant investment in modernizing Cameroon's consular infrastructure and enhancing its global competitiveness. As the construction of the Digital Transformation Center progresses, Cameroon is poised to leverage cutting-edge technology to facilitate seamless travel and promote economic growth in the region.