Douala came alive on May 29–30, 2026, during the 5th edition of the Women’s Entrepreneurship Exchange and Networking Forum organized by the Ministry of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises, Social Economy and Handicrafts (MINPMEESA) at the headquarters of the CCIMA.
Nearly 300 women entrepreneurs from across Cameroon took part in this major platform for training, information sharing, awareness raising, and networking.
Held under the theme: “Promoting Women Entrepreneurs’ Activities in the Cultural and Creative Industries and Strengthening Their Presence in International Trade in Services and the AfCFTA”, the event highlighted the crucial role women play in Cameroon’s and Africa’s economic transformation.
Participants gained valuable insights into opportunities within the services sector, which accounts for nearly two-thirds of global GDP and serves as a powerful engine for job creation, particularly for women and young people.
In the context of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), discussions focused on key strategic sectors, including: 
Transport 
Tourism 
Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) 
Financial Services 
Business Services.
Transport Tourism Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) Financial Services Business Services.Special attention was given to cultural and creative industries, with participants encouraged to seize opportunities in: African fashion and design, African textiles , African hairstyling , Handicrafts , Film and audiovisual production , Traditional dances , Cultural festivals , Gastronomy and culinary arts , Digital content creation.
, The event also featured: , Fashion shows , Cultural performances , A gastronomic fair , An exhibition fair showcasing products, services, and business opportunities.
This important initiative continues to strengthen women’s participation in productive value chains while promoting their access to African and international markets.
Together, women entrepreneurs are helping build a more inclusive, innovative, and competitive economy for Cameroon and Africa.