The National Agency for Information and Communication Technologies (ANTIC) has challenged councils in the North West Region to move beyond discussions and begin implementing practical digital solutions that will improve governance, transparency and public service delivery.
The call came at the close of the capacity building workshop for mayors and ICT administrators held in Bamenda under the theme "local development in the era of digital transformation." The seminar brought together ANTIC, the Ministry of Decentralisation and Local Development (MINDDEVEL), the Special Council Support Fund for Mutual Assistance (FEICOM) and the Public Contracts Regulatory Agency (ARMP).
Closing the workshop on behalf of the Director General of ANTIC, the North West Regional Manager, Ngwang Yufenyuy Landry, said digital technologies are no longer optional but essential tools for effective local governance.
"Digital technologies have become essential tools for strengthening governance, improving transparency and enhancing the quality of services delivered to our citizens." he said
He noted that throughout the workshop participants had explored practical solutions ranging from secure information systems and ICT master plans to financing digital projects and digitising public procurement.
"These presentations have not only broadened our understanding but have also provided concrete approaches that municipal councils can adopt to effectively integrate digital solutions into their development strategies."
The Regional Manager urged participants to transform the knowledge gained into measurable action within their municipalities.
"The success of digital transformation depends on our active commitment to innovation, collaboration and effective implementation."
He commended all resource persons and partner institutions for contributing to the success of the workshop before officially declaring the seminar closed.
One of the final technical sessions focused on change management, presented by Jean Ndoumbe of MINDDEVEL.
The presentation emphasised that technology alone cannot guarantee successful digital transformation unless institutions prepare their staff, leadership and organisational culture to embrace change.
Participants were encouraged to anticipate resistance, strengthen communication within councils, build staff capacity and ensure that digital reforms are supported by strong political and administrative leadership.
The session reinforced earlier presentations that digital transformation is primarily about changing how institutions work rather than simply acquiring new technologies.
Standing in for ARMP's Nankep Pierre Lotis, Jean Ndoumbe also delivered a presentation on facilitating public procurement through the PRIDESOFT system, showcasing one of government's flagship digital governance reforms.
He explained that Cameroon is progressively replacing paper based procurement with electronic systems to improve transparency, accountability and efficiency.
According to him, procurement processes currently suffer from delays, lack of transparency and opportunities for manipulation.
"Public procurement has historically been exposed to administrative delays, opacity and corruption."
He introduced two digital platforms developed by ARMP, PriceSoft, which supports project planning and procurement programming, and COLEPS, which manages the electronic tendering process.
The platforms, he said, eliminate unnecessary travel, reduce paperwork, improve traceability and allow procurement activities to be monitored electronically from start to finish.
"With the electronic system, there is no more manual manipulation of files."
He encouraged councils to begin using the platforms instead of relying entirely on manual procedures, noting that the systems reduce administrative costs, improve monitoring and make procurement more accessible to contractors across the country.
During discussions, participants raised concerns about internet access, electricity shortages, training needs and whether smaller councils in conflict affected areas would be able to fully adopt the platforms.
Responding to the concerns, Ndoumbe acknowledged the challenges but encouraged councils to seek support from regional ARMP offices.
"Go to the regional ARMP office. They will help you. The platforms are not difficult to use."
The interactive discussions reflected the realities facing councils in the North West Region.
Participants questioned how digital procurement could function in communities affected by insecurity, weak internet connectivity and unreliable electricity supply.
Others proposed that councils work collectively through the United Councils and Cities of Cameroon (UCCC) North West Chapter to develop common ICT projects that could attract funding while reducing implementation costs.
Several participants also requested continuous training to improve their ability to operate the new digital procurement systems.
Throughout the workshop, speakers repeatedly stressed that digital transformation requires commitment from council leadership, investment in ICT infrastructure, continuous staff training and collaboration between public institutions.
By the close of the seminar, participants had received practical guidance on developing ICT master plans, financing digital projects through FEICOM, securing municipal information systems, improving cybersecurity, strengthening digital governance and modernising public procurement.
By Bakah Derick for Hilltopvoices Web
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