Assessing the Gaps in Cybersecurity Resilience in Cameroon: Challenges and Opportunities for Strengthening National Cybersecurity Frameworks

The digital transformation in Cameroon presents critical cybersecurity challenges that demand immediate attention and strategic intervention. This comprehensive analysis examines the evolving cybersecurity landscape in Cameroon from 2020 to 2023, during which cyber-attacks increased by 156% and financial losses from digital fraud exceeded $45 million. This research identifies significant vulnerabilities in Cameroon’s cybersecurity ecosystem through a rigorous assessment of national infrastructure, policy frameworks, and institutional capacities. Recent data indicates that while digital service adoption has grown exponentially, with internet penetration reaching 35.2% in 2023, cybersecurity measures have lagged significantly behind international standards. This analysis draws on comprehensive data from multiple sectors, including financial services, government institutions, and telecommunications, incorporating findings from the National Cybersecurity Assessment Program and the Digital Infrastructure Security Report. The research reveals that 73% of organizations lack dedicated security teams, while response times to cyber incidents average 72 hours—three times than the global standard. Based on these findings, this paper proposes evidence-based solutions for enhancing digital resilience, including policy modernization, capacity-building initiatives, and technical infrastructure development. The recommendations encompass short-term tactical responses, medium-term strategic improvements, and long-term structural changes, providing a comprehensive roadmap for strengthening Cameroon’s national cybersecurity frameworks.