Cameroon unveils 2025-2035 Youth Policy with 386.1 billion FCFA budget

The National Youth Policy (PNJ) for 2025-2035 was officially presented on August 11, 2026, in Yaoundé. The policy aims to address significant youth employment issues in Cameroon, where a staggering 86.7% of the workforce is engaged in the informal sector. The government has earmarked a substantial budget of 386.1 billion FCFA to support this initiative, reflecting its commitment to improving youth livelihoods.

This policy is part of a broader strategy to enhance the socio-economic conditions of young people in Cameroon. The government aims to create more formal job opportunities and improve access to vocational training. By mobilizing resources and partners, the PNJ seeks to ensure that youth can effectively transition into the labor market.

Cameroon's labor market presents significant challenges, particularly for the youth demographic. With 86.7% of employment occurring in the informal sector, many young people struggle to find stable and well-paying jobs. The government acknowledges these challenges and aims to address them through the new policy, which focuses on creating sustainable employment opportunities.

The high rate of informal employment often leads to job insecurity and limited access to social benefits for young workers. The PNJ aims to tackle these issues by promoting formal job creation and enhancing vocational training programs. This approach is expected to empower youth and improve their overall economic prospects.

During the roundtable in Yaoundé, government officials emphasized the importance of partnerships in implementing the PNJ. They called on various stakeholders, including private sector actors and international organizations, to contribute to the funding and execution of the policy. The success of this initiative largely depends on collaborative efforts to mobilize the necessary resources.

The government is actively seeking to engage with potential partners to ensure that the ambitious budget of 386.1 billion FCFA is met. By fostering collaboration, the PNJ aims to create a comprehensive framework that addresses the multifaceted challenges of youth employment in Cameroon.