How to Register an NGO in Cameroon | Kinsmen Advocates Law Firm

  Registering a non-governmental organization (NGO) in Cameroon requires compliance with strict legal requirements. NGOs are typically exem...

 

Registering a non-governmental organization (NGO) in Cameroon requires compliance with strict legal requirements. NGOs are typically exempt from taxes, making it essential to follow the proper registration procedures to operate legally. Kinsmen Advocates Law Firm explains the process and key requirements.

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Steps to Register an NGO in Cameroon

1. Choose a Name

The name of your NGO should align with its objectives. For example, if your NGO focuses on poverty alleviation, humanitarian work, or empowering disabled individuals, the name should reflect that mission.

2. Define Vision and Objectives

Your NGO must have a clear vision and objectives, which are explicitly stated in the constitution. This ensures that all activities carried out by the NGO are legally authorized.

3. Decide on Headquarters

The headquarters of the NGO can be located anywhere in Cameroon. The constitution can also allow for the branch of the headquarters to be transferred to another region or town through a two-thirds majority vote by members.

4. Membership Rules

Membership must be clearly defined in the constitution, including:

• Eligibility: Who can join the organization based on alignment with its objectives.

• Contributions: Financial obligations or fees to become a member.

• Termination: How membership may be lost, such as failing to pay contributions, misconduct, or death.

5. Funding and Bank Accounts

The constitution should explain how the NGO will be funded:

• Contributions from members

• External funding sources

It should also specify how a bank account will be managed, including the authorized signatories (e.g., president, treasurer, financial secretary). This is important because banks rely on the constitution when opening accounts for NGOs.

6. Governance Structure

The constitution must clearly outline the executive members (ESCOS) responsible for managing the NGO, including:

• President

• Vice President

• Treasurer

• Financial Secretary

Cameroonian law requires a minimum of four members to start an NGO.

7. Draft the Constitution and Meeting Minutes

• A meeting must be held to discuss objectives, elect executives, and adopt the constitution.

• Draft minutes of the meeting to document decisions.

• Prepare a detailed constitution covering:

  • Governance structure

  • Duration of offices

  • Election procedures

  • Dissolution rules

8. Submit for Registration

• Submit an application letter along with the drafted constitution and minutes to the Divisional Officer in your region for legalization.

• For full NGO status, the organization must operate for approximately three years, demonstrating that it has carried out its stated objectives.

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Professional Guidance

It is strongly recommended to engage a corporate attorney to guide you through the drafting and legal submission process. Incorrect or incomplete documentation can lead to delays, repeated queries, or rejection of your NGO registration.

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Key Takeaways

• Choose a meaningful name aligned with your NGO’s objectives.

• Clearly define vision, objectives, membership, governance, and funding in the constitution.

• Ensure proper documentation of meetings and decisions.

• Submit legalized documents to the Divisional Officer for approval.

• Full NGO status requires proof of operations for about three years.

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Registering an NGO in Cameroon is a detailed process, but with the right legal guidance, you can ensure compliance and focus on achieving your organization’s mission.