Cameroon banks lend CFA5 billion to SMEs
AFG Bank and GBC will provide loans of up to CFA75 million with interest capped at 7.75% for women and youth entrepreneurs.
Cameroon's Deposit and Consignment Fund (CDEC) has partnered with AFG Bank Cameroon and General Bank of Cameroon (GBC) to disburse CFA5 billion in loans to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) led by women and young entrepreneurs. AFG Bank will manage CFA3 billion of the total, while GBC will provide CFA2 billion. The agreements were signed on November 4, 2026.
Businesses can secure financing of up to CFA75 million each through installment loans or equipment leasing, with repayment periods ranging from 12 to 48 months. The annual interest rate is capped at 7.75%, excluding taxes. CDEC Managing Director Richard Evina Obam, AFG Bank Cameroon Managing Director Éric Valéry Zoa, and GBC Managing Director Victor Noumoué signed the agreements, which outline terms for a pilot program.
This financing is part of a pilot program announced in April 2026, a collaboration between CDEC and the African Guarantee Fund (AGF). The CFA5 billion represents the program's initial allocation. Participating banks will be responsible for reviewing and approving loan applications.
Why it mattersWomen and youth entrepreneurs in Cameroon can access loans to invest in their small and medium-sized businesses.