As digital technologies become deeply embedded in social, economic, and governmental systems, the question of who controls data—and how that data is governed—has become a critical global concern. Around the world, governments, institutions, and communities are increasingly advocating for data sovereignty: the principle that data generated within a country should be stored, managed, and protected according to its own laws, values, and interests.
This issue is especially relevant for countries like Cameroon, where digital transformation is accelerating across public services, education, healthcare, and commerce. At the CRISBY Foundation, our ongoing research explores how data sovereignty can strengthen national development, safeguard rights, and support a more inclusive digital ecosystem.
Understanding Data Sovereignty
Data sovereignty goes beyond simple data protection. It refers to a nation’s ability to control:
- Where data is stored
- Who can access it
- How it is processed and used
- Which legal frameworks govern it
In a world where much of Africa’s digital infrastructure is hosted abroad, ensuring that data remains under national jurisdiction is becoming increasingly important—not only for security, but also for long-term digital independence.
Why Data Sovereignty Matters for Cameroon
1. Protecting Citizens’ Rights and Privacy
When data is stored outside national boundaries, it may be subject to foreign laws and commercial interests. This can weaken local efforts to protect privacy, enforce regulations, or respond to security incidents. Strengthening data sovereignty empowers institutions to uphold citizens’ rights and establish clear accountability.
2. Strengthening National Security
Public services—from digital ID systems to health information platforms—rely on sensitive data. Maintaining sovereignty helps ensure that critical national assets are shielded from external control, manipulation, or exploitation.
3. Supporting Local Innovation and the Digital Economy
Locally governed data systems stimulate innovation by enabling:
- Growth of local cloud providers
- Development of national digital services
- Creation of skills and jobs in data science, cybersecurity, and AI
A sovereign digital ecosystem allows Cameroonian innovators to build solutions that are culturally relevant and nationally controlled.
4. Reducing Dependency on Foreign Infrastructure
Reliance on external platforms can lead to vulnerabilities, including service disruptions or policy shifts beyond a country’s control. By investing in local infrastructure, Cameroonian institutions can increase stability and autonomy.
Risks of Ignoring Data Sovereignty
Countries that do not prioritise data sovereignty risk:
- Internet fragmentation, where global networks break into isolated digital blocks
- Loss of control over critical digital services
- Reduced competitiveness in the global digital economy
- Increased exposure to cyber threats and foreign interference
Recognising these challenges early is essential for shaping Cameroon’s digital future.
Where Cameroon Stands Today
Cameroon is progressing toward digital transformation, with increasing efforts to digitalise public services, expand broadband, and promote digital skills. However, significant gaps remain in areas such as:
- Data hosting infrastructure
- Regulatory frameworks
- Cybersecurity capacity
- Local cloud and data service ecosystems
Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative national effort supported by research, policy development, and capacity-building.
How the CRISBY Foundation Is Contributing
The CRISBY Foundation is actively researching global practices in data sovereignty to understand how these insights can be adapted for Cameroon. Our ongoing work focuses on:
- Exploring models of sovereign digital infrastructure
- Studying risks of fragmentation and external dependency
- Supporting discussions on national digital resilience
- Promoting citizen-centred data governance
By creating educational content, fostering dialogue, and collaborating with experts, we aim to help shape policies and solutions that ensure Cameroon’s digital future remains secure, inclusive, and sustainable.
Looking Ahead: Building a Sovereign and Inclusive Digital Ecosystem
Data sovereignty is not just a technical issue—it is a foundation for trust, innovation, and national development. Strengthening it will require:
- Investment in local data centres and cloud technology
- Clear legal frameworks for data governance
- Public awareness and digital literacy
- Collaboration between government, academia, civil society, and the private sector
As Cameroon continues its digital transformation, ensuring that citizens and institutions maintain control over their data is essential for building a resilient and equitable digital society.
The CRISBY Foundation remains committed to supporting this journey through research, advocacy, and strategic partnerships.