Cameroon/Japan–Kaizen Cooperation: 156 consultants trained, 1,900 SMEs supported, 3 African awards won – Cameroon strengthens its KAIZEN leadership with Japan.
On Wednesday, February 18, 2026, the Minister of SMEs, Social Economy and Handicrafts, Achille Bassilekin III, granted an audience to the new Resident Representative of the Agence Japonaise de Coopération Internationale in Cameroon, Okumoto Masakatsu.
At the heart of the discussions: strengthening the competitiveness of Cameroonian SMEs through the KAIZEN approach, a strategic pillar of Cameroon–Japan cooperation since 2015.
Tangible and impressive results:
156 consultants trained in the KAIZEN methodology 1,900 entrepreneurs and SMEs supported 101 national certifications delivered
3 African Outstanding Performance Awards won (2020, 2022, 2024)Through the implementation of KAIZEN Project Phase 3 (2023–2027), Cameroon confirms its position as a leading KAIZEN hub in Francophone Africa 
Discussions also focused on:
Institutionalizing the National Program for Productivity and Quality Improvement of SMEs Cameroon’s candidacy for KAIZEN Center of Excellence status in Africa under the Africa KAIZEN Initiative, led by JICA in collaboration with AUDA-NEPAD
Beyond a technical project, KAIZEN has become a strategic driver of structural transformation, import substitution, and inclusive growth in Cameroon.Together, Cameroon and Japan continue to strengthen a forward-looking partnership built on knowledge transfer, capacity building, and sustainable development.