Supporting Local Businesses

Supporting Local Businesses: Building a Resilient Bamenda Economy

At the heart of Bamenda’s economic life are the local businesses—small and medium enterprises, market vendors, artisans, startups, and service providers—that fuel daily commerce and keep our communities vibrant. Recognizing their vital role, the Bamenda City Council remains committed to creating an enabling environment where local businesses can thrive, innovate, and expand.

As part of our broader economic development strategy, the Council is implementing a range of initiatives to support entrepreneurs and business owners. These include improved market infrastructure, licensing reforms, capacity-building programs, and increased access to information on government support services.

In collaboration with local business associations, youth groups, and financial institutions, the Council is promoting a culture of entrepreneurship, especially among women and young people. We believe that empowering local businesses means empowering families, reducing unemployment, and ensuring long-term economic stability.

“When we support local businesses, we are not just growing the economy—we are investing in our people, our culture, and our future,” the Lord Mayor noted in a recent address.

Key initiatives by the Bamenda City Council to support local businesses include:

• Market rehabilitation and expansion to improve trader conditions.

• Training programs and workshops on financial literacy, business management, and digital tools.

• Simplified registration and tax procedures to encourage formalization.

• Promotion of “Buy Bamenda” campaigns to stimulate local demand.

• Facilitation of public-private partnerships for enterprise growth.

The Council also calls on residents to play their part by choosing to shop local, support homegrown brands, and collaborate with local service providers. Every purchase made from a local business is a vote for community development.

Together, we can create a dynamic, inclusive, and resilient local economy that reflects the true potential of Bamenda.

Let’s invest in Bamenda. Let’s support our own.